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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Sam Brookes

The number of World Cups Ronaldo has played in as he matches Messi’s record

Cristiano Ronaldo Lionel Messi World Cup Portugal
  • Cristiano Ronaldo is playing in his sixth World Cup Wednesday after being named in Portugal’s starting line-up for their opening game against DR Congo.
  • Ronaldo made his first appearance at a World Cup in 2006, and he is still going strong 20 years later, with Roberto Martinez trusting him to lead the line for Portugal.
  • Ronaldo has now equalled Lionel Messi’s record of playing in six World Cups, with the Argentine superstar making his first appearance at the 2026 tournament on Tuesday night.
  • Messi delivered a masterful performance as he scored his first World Cup hat-trick to guide Argentina to a 3-0 win over Algeria.
  • Ronaldo will hope to make a similar impact, with Portugal aiming to get off to a strong start to prove they can be World Cup contenders.

IN FULL

Portugal v DR Congo LIVE: Cristiano Ronaldo begins sixth World Cup campaign after Messi shines

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