Argentina captain, Lionel Messi, could equal a unique record held by Brazilian legend, Ronaldo Nazário, when he leads the defending champions against Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday.
If Argentina retain the title they won in Qatar in 2022, Messi would claim his second World Cup trophy and become only the second player in football history to win at least two FIFA World Cups and two Ballon d’Or awards, PUNCH Online reports.
Ronaldo is currently the only player to have achieved the feat, having won the World Cup with Brazil in 1994 and 2002, alongside Ballon d’Or titles in 1997 and 2002.
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, lifted his first World Cup in Qatar four years ago and now has the opportunity to match Ronaldo’s achievement if Argentina defeat Spain in Sunday’s final.
The record has remained unmatched largely because of football’s history and the timing of major international successes.
