Cristiano Ronaldo faces his sixth World Cup, a final chance to claim the gold trophy he has yet to lift. With 22 caps, he trails Messi’s 26 and could climb to 29 if Portugal reaches the final. The tournament becomes a decisive chapter in a career filled with club success.

At 41 years, 5 months, Ronaldo could break the record for the oldest goalscorer in a World Cup final, eclipsing Sweden’s Nils Liedholm. He also stands to become the first player to score across six different World Cups, a milestone that would cement his international reputation.

Portugal’s squad now relies more on emerging talents like Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha, reducing the burden on Ronaldo’s historic persona. If he nets in this edition, the narrative shifts from a record‑hungry veteran to a champion who finally delivers on the biggest stage.

Ronaldo’s World Cup legacy hinges on a single match: scoring or winning the trophy. The outcome will define how history remembers him.