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The 2026 FIFA World Cup is shaping up to be one of the most emotional editions in the history of modern football.

The tournament, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, could mark the final appearance for several legendary players who have dominated world football for more than a decade.

Big names such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Neymar, Luka Modric, Kevin De Bruyne, Sadio Mane, Son Heung-min, James Rodriguez, and Virgil van Dijk are all likely to play their last World Cup in this edition, according to beIN Sport.

For football fans, this will be a rare opportunity to once again witness a golden generation that has provided countless unforgettable moments on the world’s biggest stage.

Much of the attention will undoubtedly focus on Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, two players who have embodied the greatest rivalry in football history for nearly two decades.

Ronaldo’s Final Campaign with Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo has confirmed that he will once again lead Portugal at the 2026 World Cup.

If he plays and scores, the 41-year-old superstar could make history as the first player ever to score in six different World Cup editions.

So far, Ronaldo has featured in five consecutive World Cups and scored a total of eight goals in the tournament.

Despite his long list of major trophies, one title still eludes him — lifting the World Cup trophy with Portugal.

The 2026 edition presents one last opportunity for him to fulfill that dream, likely marking his final appearance with the Selecao das Quinas.

The forward made this statement while attending the Tourism Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in November 2025.

“Yes, of course. This will be my last World Cup,” Ronaldo said, as quoted by BBC.

“I’ll be 41 by then, and I think it will be my final moment in major competition.”

However, Ronaldo clarified that he has no immediate plans to retire from club football.

“Honestly, when I say soon, it could still be one or two more years,” he explained.

“But I know my time in football is gradually coming to an end.”

Messi’s Farewell with Argentina

On the other hand, Lionel Messi is also set to represent Argentina again after leading his country to World Cup glory in Qatar 2022.

The 2026 tournament will be Messi’s sixth appearance on football’s biggest stage, a milestone achieved by only a few players throughout history.

For Messi, playing in North America could serve as the perfect conclusion to his remarkable international journey with the Albiceleste.

The 38-year-old expressed deep gratitude for having ended his career’s biggest pursuit by finally winning the World Cup trophy — a lifelong dream.

“To finish my career this way with Argentina is everything I ever dreamed of, to end it with my people,” Messi told Fabrizio Romano.

“Over the years, many things have been said, but I choose to remember all the good we achieved together as a team.”

“I don’t think I’ll play another World Cup after this. Given my age, it’s only logical that I won’t be able to do it again.”

Despite that, Messi emphasized that he remains focused on taking things one match at a time.

“I’m living day by day, match by match. I just want to enjoy every moment and follow my instincts.”

Beyond Ronaldo and Messi, several other senior stars could also make their final appearances on the international stage.

Neymar continues to be Brazil’s key player, Luka Modric remains Croatia’s midfield maestro, while Kevin De Bruyne still drives Belgium’s attack.

In Africa, Sadio Mane remains Senegal’s talisman, and Son Heung-min will once again lead South Korea on the global stage.

If this turns out to be their final World Cup, the 2026 edition will not only be a battle for football’s most prestigious trophy but also a farewell celebration for a generation that has made history, broken countless records, and inspired millions of fans worldwide.

For that reason, the 2026 World Cup could be remembered not just as the biggest football competition but also as the “last dance” for the legends who defined the golden era of modern football.

Support Rises for Ronaldo and Portugal

At the 2026 World Cup, Cristiano Ronaldo will once again wear the captain’s armband for Portugal as they chase the elusive world title.

Portugal has been drawn into Group K, beginning their campaign against DR Congo on June 18.

They will then face Uzbekistan on June 24 before closing the group stage against Colombia on June 28.

As the tournament approaches in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, support for Portugal continues to pour in from around the world — including Indonesia.

Syahrul Fauzi, President of Pena Real Madrid de Indonesia (PRMI), revealed that Portugal is his favorite to win the World Cup this year.

Although he is a Real Madrid supporter and also admires Lionel Messi, Syahrul believes Portugal has what it takes to go far in the competition.

“I’m backing Portugal. Even though I’m a Real Madrid fan and also admire Lionel Messi, for the national team I choose Portugal,” Syahrul told Tribunnews.

Similar support came from PSM Makassar midfielder Muhammad Arfan.

The player, who wears number 48, expressed his excitement to watch Ronaldo perform at the global event.

According to Arfan, Portugal possesses a highly competitive squad blending experienced veterans with talented young players.

He believes Ronaldo’s leadership remains a crucial factor that can help Portugal compete with other top nations for the 2026 World Cup title.

With their experience, squad depth, and Ronaldo’s influence in the dressing room, Portugal is widely considered one of the strongest contenders to challenge powerhouse teams such as Argentina, France, Brazil, and Spain for the championship.

“Portugal has experienced and high-quality players. Ronaldo is the key player,” said Arfan.

“I’m confident Portugal will win their first World Cup title this year,” he added.