2 min read
Football Insider

Wesley Sneijder: Lionel Messi & Argentina 'lucky' to win Qatar World Cup; Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal 'stronger chance' in 2026

Wesley Sneijder claims Lionel Messi and Argentina were 'lucky' to win the Qatar World Cup, suggesting Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal have a 'stronger chance' of glory in the 2026 World Cup. Explore the insights and predictions regarding the upcoming football tournaments.

Wesley Sneijder: Lionel Messi & Argentina 'lucky' to win Qatar World Cup; Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal 'stronger chance' in 2026

Lionel Messi and Argentina have been told that they were “lucky” to savour World Cup glory at Qatar 2022. All-time great Messi completed his medal collection at that event, as he inspired the Albiceleste to a global title. Wesley Sneijder has suggested that the South Americans were fortunate to claim that crown, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal considered to have a better chance of landing the same prize in 2026.The countdown is on to another meeting of the best players on the planet. FIFA’s flagship event is preparing to head to the United States, Canada and Mexico next summer - with 48 teams taking part in an expanded format.The expectation is that Messi and Ronaldo will form part of that gathering. CR7 has stated that he expects his sixth World Cup to be his last, as he will be 41 by the time that the tournament gets underway, but has been showing no sign of slowing down with Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr.Messi is yet to confirm that he will form part of Argentina’s title defence, with the 38-year-old now plying his club trade in MLS for Inter Miami. Many are tipping him to make Lionel Scaloni’s squad, with a 200th international cap in the process of being chased down.Messi has already reached the pinnacle of world football, having got his hands on the trophy that he coveted most in 2022, with the all-time great caring little what the likes of Sneijder think about his glorious achievement.The ex-Netherlands and Real Madrid playmaker has, however, told AdventureGamers when turning the clock backwards and forwards: “Portugal have a very strong team. For me they are one of the favourites so then I would say Cristiano Ronaldo has the stronger chance of winning the next World Cup compared to Lionel Messi. It was a great World Cup for Argentina in Qatar but they were a bit lucky as well. I think overall Portugal is a better team.”Looking for smarter football bets? Get expert previews, data-driven predictions & winning insights with GOAL Tips on Telegram. Join our growing community now!This is not the first time that Sneijder has questioned Messi’s claims to the most prestigious of honours. The Dutchman helped Jose Mourinho’s legendary Inter side to a Serie A, Coppa Italia and Champions League treble in 2010 and believes those exploits should have earned him a Golden Ball.Sneijder has previously said: “It was a little unfair that I was not crowned with the 2010 Ballon d'Or and Messi won it. Although I'm not the guy who cries about that: the Ballon d'Or is an individual award, and what I prefer is to win collective trophies. If I had to choose between the Champions League and the Ballon d'Or, I would choose the Champions League that I won. I am very happy with that title.”Sneijder has seen Messi move on to eight Ballons d’Or, while Ronaldo has five in his collection. They are both still going strong, with there individual targets for them to chase down.Ronaldo has made no secret of the fact that he wants to reach 1,000 career goals, with Messi also being backed to hit four figures in that department before history-making boots are hung up for the final time.Sneijder has said: “I think that's the next goal for both of them, 100%. Cristiano won’t stop before reaching the thousand goals. Messi has signed another two year deal. He will definitely reach one thousand goals as well.“It's nice that we are still talking about this rivalry with one in MLS and the other in Saudi. They are two big stars and now they’re chasing a different goal of reaching 1,000 goals. Amazing. Maybe we see about counting their assists to find out who can get to 2,000 first.”Ronaldo has committed to a contact at Al-Nassr that is set to keep him into the Middle East until the summer of 2027. Messi, meanwhile, has agreed fresh terms with Inter Miami through the 2028 MLS season.

1

Lionel Messi's Magical Journey to World Cup Glory

Lionel Messi's quest for World Cup success finally culminated in the historic victory for Argentina at Qatar 2022. The legendary player led his national team to a global title, completing his medal collection. Despite criticism from Wesley Sneijder claiming luck played a part, Messi's dedication and talent shone bright on the biggest stage of football.

2

Cristiano Ronaldo's Pursuit of World Cup Triumph

Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal are eyeing World Cup glory in 2026 with determination. Ronaldo, who aims for his sixth World Cup appearance as possibly his last, continues to impress with Al-Nassr. Wesley Sneijder's belief in Portugal's strength as a team adds an intriguing layer to the upcoming tournament narrative.

3

The Future of Messi and Ronaldo

As the football world eagerly anticipates the next World Cup, the presence of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo remains pivotal. With Messi in MLS and Ronaldo showcasing his skills in Saudi, the rivalry between these two icons continues. Sneijder's insight on their pursuit of individual goals, like reaching 1,000 career goals, adds an exciting dimension to their enduring legacies.

4

Sneijder's Perspective on Messi and Ronaldo's Achievements

Wesley Sneijder's comments on Messi and Ronaldo's accolades shed light on the competitive nature of individual and collective honors in football. While Messi's Ballon d'Or count stands at eight and Ronaldo's at five, the mutual pursuit of scoring milestones like 1,000 goals exemplifies their enduring hunger for success.

5

Looking Ahead to the Exciting Football Contests

As fans anticipate the next chapter of football greatness, the dynamics between Messi, Ronaldo, and emerging talents promise an enthralling spectacle. The upcoming World Cup in 2026, hosted across multiple countries, sets the stage for intense competition and memorable performances. Stay tuned for expert previews, data-driven predictions, and winning insights to enhance your football experience.

Published on Nov 18, 2025