After leading Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup, Lionel Messi appeared ready to hang up his boots. However, both he and longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo are still driven as they prepare to make history at this year’s tournament in North America. This will be their last appearance in the World Cup, making them the first players to play in six different World Cups, two decades after their debuts.

They have become global icons, recognizable figures as they approach middle age and contemplate retirement. After Argentina’s triumph in Qatar, Messi suggested that he could not ask for more from his career. "I wanted to finish my career with this. I can’t ask for any more," he said after leading Argentina to victory over France in the final.

Messi, now playing for Inter Miami, remains crucial for Argentina. He captained the team to victory at the Copa America in 2024 and was the top scorer in South American World Cup qualifying. "I love playing football, and I’m going to do it until I can’t anymore," he said recently.

Messi is just two games away from reaching 200 caps and is set to add to his record of 26 appearances in World Cup matches. With 13 World Cup goals, he is within striking distance of Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 goals. Argentina’s group opponents—Algeria, Austria, and Jordan—do not appear to be the toughest.

Ronaldo, now 41, is determined to continue his international career, hoping to land the ultimate prize. Despite not scoring at Euro 2024, he remains the most-capped men's player with 226 appearances. Portugal, who face Colombia, Uzbekistan, and DR Congo in their group, are genuine contenders to win the World Cup. Ronaldo will seek to add to his eight World Cup goals and finally score in the knockout stages.

If both Portugal and Argentina top their groups, Ronaldo and Messi could meet in the quarter-finals in Kansas City on July 11. This could be their final dance on the world stage, with both players set to leave an indelible mark on the sport.