Overview
- Sneijder told AdventureGamers that Argentina were “a bit lucky” in Qatar and argued Portugal are better placed for the expanded 2026 tournament.
- He described Portugal as “one of the favourites,” saying Cristiano Ronaldo has a stronger chance of 2026 success than Lionel Messi.
- Cristiano Ronaldo has said the 2026 World Cup would be his sixth and last, entering the tournament at age 41 with Al-Nassr form keeping him in contention.
- Hindustan Times reports Portugal secured qualification after a 9–1 win over Armenia and notes Ronaldo’s red card against Ireland led to a three‑match ban that sidelined him for Armenia, with the outlet saying he would miss the first two World Cup games.
- Messi has not committed to defending Argentina’s title, repeatedly stating he will decide based on fitness and form, as separate analysis highlights he is closer than Ronaldo to Miroslav Klose’s all‑time World Cup goals record.