As anticipation builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, much of the spotlight remains fixed on two icons who have defined an era of soccer: Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

For many fans, the tournament represents one final chance to watch two of the greatest players in history compete on soccer’s biggest stage. One question continues to dominate conversations around the sport: How far can they go?

Argentina enters the tournament as defending world champion after Messi led La Albiceleste to glory in Qatar in 2022. Portugal, meanwhile, is still chasing the defining World Cup run its supporters have long dreamed about during the Ronaldo era.

Twellman makes strong Portugal claim

Soccer analysts around the world have spent months debating which superstar is better positioned to succeed in 2026, but former U.S. national team striker Taylor Twellman believes the answer is clear.

The former New England Revolution forward, once regarded as one of Major League Soccer’s top players, argued that Portugal has assembled the strongest roster in the country’s history. According to Twellman, the team is now so complete that Ronaldo’s role may not be as essential as in previous tournaments.

“For Portugal, and I’m going to make a bold statement here, this is the best team Ronaldo has ever had around him at a World Cup,” Twellman said.

“I actually think Portugal is at their best if he doesn’t play.”

No concern over Messi injury scare

Twellman also addressed concerns surrounding Messi after the Inter Miami star exited a recent MLS match with what appeared to be a muscle issue.

Despite fears about the Argentine captain’s fitness ahead of the World Cup, Twellman dismissed any major concern and expressed confidence that Messi will be fully fit for the tournament.

“For Messi, this is the World Cup defending champion,” Twellman said. “A couple days ago he was injured in an MLS game with Inter Miami. He’s fine. It’s muscle fatigue. He’ll be fine.”

With the 2026 World Cup drawing closer, every update involving Messi and Ronaldo is likely to dominate headlines. For American fans preparing to host the sport’s biggest event, the possibility of one final showdown between the two legends only adds to the excitement.

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