Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has reacted to the possibility of facing Lionel Messi and Argentina in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals, calling it an 'awesome' prospect. The 41-year-old scored twice as Portugal thrashed Uzbekistan 5-0 in Houston, making him the first player to score in six men's World Cups.
Ronaldo, who had faced criticism after Portugal's opening draw with Congo DR, opened the scoring in the sixth minute and added a second before halftime from a Nuno Mendes free kick. An own goal by Abduvohid Nematov and a late strike from Rafael Leão completed the win, putting Portugal top of Group K ahead of Colombia's later match.
Ronaldo on facing Messi
When asked about a potential showdown with Argentina and his long-time rival Messi, Ronaldo said: 'I don't know how to answer that. But, well, it would be awesome.' He quickly shifted focus to the team's performance: 'The most important thing was today, winning to advance, and being ready for what's next.'
Ronaldo and Messi have never faced each other in a major tournament despite their record-setting careers. Argentina are on the opposite side of the draw, meaning a meeting would only happen in the quarter-finals or later.
Responding to criticism
The Portugal team faced harsh media criticism after the draw with Congo DR, with Ronaldo's place in the starting lineup questioned. 'It was a very tough and difficult week, with public opinion being very harsh on all the players, especially on me and the coach [Roberto Martinez],' Ronaldo said. 'But I don't mind. I've been in this profession for 23 years now, and whenever things go well, "Cristiano is doing great," but when they go badly, "Cristiano is retired, he's too old." It will always be like that. But we responded well today.'
Shutting down Messi questions
Ronaldo shut down further questions about Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland, who lead the race for the tournament's Golden Boot. 'Next question,' he snapped. 'The most important thing is the team, being united with them. We can't control the rest that comes from outside. We know that when we don't win, we get attacked, especially me.'
Portugal will face Colombia in their final group game in Miami Gardens on Saturday, aiming to clinch top spot in Group K and match Argentina's flawless start to the tournament.
