Could a Messi v Ronaldo final really happen?

-Just two matches stand between us and a superlative World Cup Final

-Lionel Messi and Argentina are really gaining momentum, with the enthusiastic backing of arguably the loudest fans at the tournament

-While Cristiano Ronaldo may have lost his place in Portugal’s starting line-up, his relentless ambition will continue to drive the team forward

A FIFA World Cup™ Final between Argentina and Portugal would be the Hollywood ending to one of the most compelling rivalries the footballing world has ever seen. Could we really see a grand finale with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as its main protagonists?

The simple answer to this question is: yes.

What needs to happen to set up a Final between Argentina and Portugal?

Argentina first need to beat the Netherlands on Friday and would then face the winner of the match between Croatia and Brazil in the semi-finals. If they can pass that formidable test, the Albiceleste will reach the Final for the fourth time in the last 40 years. 

Portugal have never gone beyond the last four at a World Cup, and their first challenge on the way to their maiden Final is to defeat Morocco. The winners of that encounter must then take on either France or England in the semi-finals on Wednesday 14 December. 

While the hurdles between both teams and the final showdown are admittedly extremely high, nothing is impossible when you consider the standards they set for themselves. 

What would be the significance of a Final featuring Messi and Ronaldo?

Simply put, it would be a dream for many football fans. The volume levels in Qatar have gone through the roof whenever one of these two superstars step onto the pitch, and there are few sporting headlines anywhere in the world that could dislodge a showdown like this from the back pages. 

A Final between Argentina and Portugal would also mean that one of the two players with the most individual accolades in the game would crown their glittering career with a World Cup winners medal, while the other would probably have to come to terms with the fact that the GOAT debate would be settled at last.