The number of World Cups Ronaldo has played in as he matches Messi’s record (opens original article in a new tab)

Cristiano Ronaldo begins his sixth World Cup campaign, matching Lionel Messi's record of six World Cup participations, as Portugal faces DR Congo.

• Cristiano Ronaldo is playing in his sixth World Cup after being named in Portugal’s starting line-up against DR Congo.
• Ronaldo has equalled Lionel Messi’s record of participating in six World Cups.
• Messi previously scored a hat-trick in Argentina's 3-0 win over Algeria during the 2026 tournament.