Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has addressed the possibility of facing long-time rival Lionel Messi and Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing such a meeting as something that would be “awesome.”

The 41-year-old forward played a key role in Portugal’s dominant victory, scoring twice as his side secured top spot in Group K. His brace also saw him become the first player in men’s football history to score in six different World Cups.

A potential clash between Portugal and Argentina later in the tournament has generated excitement, as Ronaldo and Messi have never faced each other at a major international tournament despite defining an era of football with their legendary rivalry.

Asked about the prospect after the match, Ronaldo said he was focused primarily on Portugal’s progress rather than a dream showdown with Argentina.

“I don't know how to answer that, but it would be awesome,” Ronaldo told reporters. “The most important thing was winning today, advancing, and being ready for what's next. Our main objective was to get through the group stage, and we achieved that.”

The Portuguese star also responded to criticism directed at him and coach Roberto Martínez following Portugal’s opening draw with Congo DR, where questions were raised about his place in the starting lineup.

“It was a very difficult week, with public opinion being very harsh on all the players, especially on me and the coach,” Ronaldo said. “I've been in this profession for 23 years. When things go well, people say Cristiano is great; when they go badly, they say Cristiano is retired and too old. That's football, and it will always be like that.”

When asked about Messi as well as fellow stars Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland in relation to the Golden Boot race, Ronaldo declined to engage in individual comparisons, stressing that team success remains his priority.

Portugal will now face Colombia in their final group-stage match, aiming to secure first place in the group and potentially set up a path that could eventually lead to a long-awaited World Cup showdown with Messi’s Argentina.