Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have been a part of many football records in their career. Now, they were on the verge of creating another record.
However, Lionel Messi already holds the record for most World Cup appearances with 26 matches under his belt.
The Argentine has participated in five World Cups, just like Cristiano Ronaldo. Now, there are other players who have participated in five World Cups.
So, when Cristiano Ronaldo features for Portugal in the 2026 edition of the quadrennial event, it will mark his historic sixth tournament.
Transfer News Live already reported that Cristiano Ronaldo is using a special treatment to ensure he features for the Portuguese national side in the World Cup.
Lionel Messi will also achieve the same when he features for Argentina as the Albiceleste looks to defend the crown they won in 2022.
Messi and Ronaldo are truly two of the greatest footballers to have ever played this game. So, it would have been fitting if this record went to these two legends.
However, there is another player who could achieve that record of appearing at six World Cup editions.
Mexico’s Guillermo Ochoa could take the field in his home country and achieve the record of playing in six different World Cup events, along with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ochoa was not in contention to be a part of Mexico’s World Cup squad. However, destiny might have had other plans for the 40-year-old.
Mexico’s number one goalkeeper, Angel Malagon, has torn his Achilles tendon. As a result, he will miss the 2026 World Cup. That is why Guillermo Ochoa might get a chance to create history.
If Ochoa gets into the team, he will create history by appearing in six different World Cup editions alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Mexico’s No.1 goalkeeper Luis Ángel Malagón has torn his Achilles and will miss the World Cup. 🇲🇽
All signs now point to Guillermo Ochoa stepping in, which could see the 40-year-old play in his SIXTH World Cup! 🏆
Ochoa… One Last Dance! 🧤 pic.twitter.com/SetHPC5lzX
— SPORF (@Sporf) March 12, 2026
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