Football’s greatest rivalry has produced another remarkable milestone, with both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo setting the record for the longest time span between a player’s first and latest FIFA World Cup goals.
Ronaldo’s World Cup scoring journey began against Iran in June 2006 and continued 20 years and 11 days later with a goal against Uzbekistan in June 2026. Messi matched that achievement, having scored his first World Cup goal against Serbia in June 2006 before finding the net again against Austria 20 years and 11 days later.
The two icons have also achieved another rare feat for their nations. Messi is both the youngest and oldest World Cup goalscorer in Argentina’s history, while Ronaldo holds the same distinction for Portugal.
Two decades, six World Cups, countless records, and still making history. As both legends continue to defy time on football’s biggest stage, the debate remains alive:
Who is the GOAT — Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo? 🐐⚽
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