“We Don’t Have [Lionel] Messi” – Lost European Championship With Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal Legend Reveals Why CR7 Didn’t Win the World Cup

In the pantheon of soccer superstars, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are the names that shine brightly. The GOATs have dazzled the world with their unmatched skills and dedication. Despite approaching the twilight of their career, the influence they carry is immense.

Ronaldo has led Portugal to European glory. But he is yet to win the coveted World Cup. On the other hand, Messi got his hands on the ultimate trophy last year in Qatar. It reignited the debate over who is GOAT. And there was also a question raised: Will Ronaldo ever win the World Cup? Amid these suggestions, a Portuguese legend had his say over why his nation is failing to win the coveted trophy.

Lionel Messi is the difference 

Deco is one of those lucky soccer stars who played alongside Ronaldo and Messi. He was part of the Portugal squad with Ronaldo that fell short of Euro 2004 after losing to Greece in the final. He also failed to win the Euros in 2008 as Germany ousted Portugal in the quarterfinals. However, a Cristiano Ronaldo led Portugal and finally got their hands on the trophy in 2016 by defeating France in the final.

Unfortunately, fortune hasn’t favored the European nation in their pursuit of the World Cup. Deco recently spoke to the Brazilian outlet TR Sports. When asked why Argentina won the World Cup, Deco said, “Argentina won the World Cup because they have Messi.” While speaking of Portugal, the former FC Barcelona midfielder said, “For us, Portugal had the best generation of good players, but we don’t have Messi.” His message is simple: Messi is the difference between Portugal and Argentina.

Portugal has seen many superstars like Eusebio, Luis Figo, and Cristiano Ronaldo. But none of those legends could lead the nation to World Cup glory. The hopes of fans were raised after Ronaldo-led Portugal won the Euro 2016. But they couldn’t carry the form into the 2018 FIFA World Cup, as Uruguay knocked them out in the Round of 16. They were going strong in the latest edition in Qatar, but dark horses Morocco ousted them in the quarter-final. 

What are their chances of winning the next edition of the international tournament? Will their talisman be there to spur them on in 2026?

Will Cristiano Ronaldo play in the 2026 World Cup?

The next edition of the World Cup is three years away. The North American nations: the US, Mexico, and Canada, will host the 2026 edition. Ronaldo will be 41 by then. It will be intriguing to see if he keeps playing soccer till then or hangs his boots.

READ MORE: “Cristiano’s Commitment Is Total” – Portugal Boss Says Cristiano Ronaldo Has an ‘Advantage’ Playing for Al Nassr Ahead of Euro Qualifier Against Bosnia

The Al Nassr deal of Ronaldo’s runs until 2025. We will be seeing him play till then. The reports also suggest Ronaldo wants to play in Euro 2024, and Roberto Martinez seems to have no problems with CR7 in the squad. Martinez has been calling the five-time Ballon d’Or winner for every game since his appointment.

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Let us know whether you think we will see Cristiano Ronaldo in the 2026 World Cup? What did you make of Deco’s claims? Let us know in the comments section below.