Omotayo Fashola
(Messi and Ronaldo. Image via Goal.com)
Di Maria, who lifted the 2022 World Cup with Messi and shared the pitch with Ronaldo at Real Madrid, stated in an exclusive Ballon d’Or interview that football may never witness another duel of such intensity. While neither player is currently favored for the prestigious award, he emphasized that a dominant World Cup campaign could thrust either back into contention.
The 2026 tournament, spanning the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, will mark an unprecedented sixth World Cup for both legends. Argentina and Portugal are among the favorites, though a potential quarterfinal clash looms—meaning only one could advance further.
Messi and Ronaldo have collectively won 13 Ballon d’Or trophies, with Messi’s record-breaking eighth arriving in 2023 after Argentina’s Qatar triumph. Meanwhile, the 2026 ceremony breaks tradition by moving from France to London, scheduled for October 26.
Di Maria’s comments highlight how the twilight of their careers hasn’t dimmed the possibility of one final chapter in their storied competition—should either shine on football’s grandest stage.
