Messi and Ronaldo Set for Final World Cup Knockout Stages

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are set to compete in their final FIFA World Cup knockout stages, facing Croatia and Cape Verde. With contrasting records in knockout matches, this tournament marks a significant moment in their illustrious careers. Messi has excelled in knockout rounds, while Ronaldo seeks to overcome a notable absence of goals in this phase. As they prepare for this historic clash, fans eagerly anticipate the legacy these two legends will leave behind.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 30, 2026, 21:15 IST

The Last Dance for Football Legends

In a historic moment for football, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are poised to compete in the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup for the final time. Argentina and Portugal will face Croatia and Cape Verde, respectively, on July 2 and July 3 in Toronto and Miami. Both players have made history by participating in six World Cups, and this tournament is likely their last.

Their performances in knockout rounds have been markedly different. Messi has reached two finals, clinching the title in 2022, while Ronaldo has yet to appear in a World Cup final, seeking to secure the only major trophy that has eluded him. Messi is set to become the first player to participate in knockout stages across six World Cups, while Ronaldo will make his fifth appearance in this phase. Notably, Ronaldo missed the 2014 knockout stage as Portugal failed to advance beyond the group stage, finishing behind Ghana and the USA.

Despite his illustrious career, Ronaldo has not scored or assisted in any knockout stage match at the World Cup, a significant blemish on his record. In contrast, Messi struggled to find the net in knockout rounds until 2018 but dramatically changed his narrative by scoring in every knockout stage in 2022, becoming the first player to do so since the Round of 16 format was introduced. Previously, only Brazil's Jarizinho had scored in every knockout match in a single tournament back in 1970.

Comparative Knockout Stage Records

Player	Matches	Goals	Assists
Lionel Messi	12	5	6
Cristiano Ronaldo	8	0	0

When it comes to major international tournaments, Messi's knockout stage statistics are impressive. He has netted six goals and provided 12 assists in Copa America knockout matches over 19 games. Conversely, Ronaldo has recorded three goals and two assists in the UEFA Euros knockout rounds across 13 matches. Overall, Messi has played 31 matches for Argentina in major tournaments, contributing 11 goals and eight assists, while Ronaldo has participated in 21 knockout matches for Portugal, with three goals and two assists.