Messi, Ronaldo & Ochoa are heading to their sixth FIFA World Cup in 2026

Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Guillermo Ochoa are all set to make history!

Football’s biggest spectacle, the FIFA World Cup, is gearing up for its newest edition. Co-hosted by the USA, Mexico and Canada, this will be the first tournament to be hosted by three nations. The competition will arrive with huge expectations, with the previous edition regarded as one of the greatest footballing events of all time.

The 2026 edition will also be the largest in terms of teams participating, with a record 48 nations featuring instead of the traditional 32, raising the total number of matches from 94 to 104.

The success of the World Cup has mainly been attributed to the players who participated in those editions. From renowned winners to some of the brightest footballing talents, the competition has served as a growing platform for the game’s biggest names. However, only an elite few have managed to make consistent appearances, driven by their hard work and commitment to their nation.

On that note, here are the three players set to make their sixth tournament appearance, with their involvement in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

3. Guillermo Ochoa (Mexico)

One of the most surprising inclusions for the 2026 FIFA World Cup was the call-up of the 40-year-old veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa to the Mexico national football team roster, becoming the first Mexican player to play in six World Cups. Ochoa has been vital for the side, starting for the team in the last three editions (2014, 2018 and 2022).

His best performance came in the 2018 tournament, making an impressive 25 saves across four matches, earning acclaim. His selection is believed to be due to his veteran experience and leadership abilities, crucial for a side featuring numerous youth talents.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)

Portugal’s all-time top scorer and highest appearance maker, Cristiano Ronaldo, is all set for his sixth World Cup outing, with the final hopes of securing the title for his side. Ronaldo has established himself as one of the tournament’s greats without winning the World Cup, being the only player to score in five different editions.

He currently has registered eight goals and two assists for the team, cementing his stature as a key member of the Portugal national team in recent decades.

1. Lionel Messi (Argentina)

Lionel Messi is considered by many to be the greatest player to feature in the World Cup. The Argentinian holds several records in addition to the most appearances, with the forward having the most goal contributions in World Cup history (21), surpassing Pelé, while also being the only player to score in every stage of a tournament.

He famously guided the Argentina national football team to a historic third title in the 2022 edition, scoring twice in the final and ultimately winning the tournament’s Golden Ball. With Argentina regarded as one of the favourites, Messi will have huge hopes upon him to lead the side to consecutive World Cup titles.

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