Lionel Messi and Argentina may be reigning world champions, but not everyone believes their Qatar 2022 victory was the unstoppable fairytale fans remember. Former Dutch international Wesley Sneijder has stirred fresh debate after claiming that Argentina were “lucky” to lift the trophy — and that Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal actually have a stronger shot at conquering the 2026 World Cup.
For followers of global football and readers of the best sport blog in today’s sports market, this conversation is worth diving into.
The football world is gearing up for another historic World Cup, as the 2026 edition heads to the USA, Canada and Mexico with a record 48 teams. The question on everyone’s mind remains the same:
Will Messi and Ronaldo be there — and can either of them win it?
Ronaldo has already confirmed he expects to play his sixth and final World Cup, and despite being 41 by kickoff, he’s still delivering elite numbers in the Saudi Pro League. Meanwhile, Messi, now dazzling in MLS with Inter Miami, has remained silent about his World Cup future. However, fans expect him to lead Argentina’s title defence — possibly chasing a monumental 200th international cap.
While many still argue Messi’s greatness needs no further validation, Sneijder believes the next World Cup may favour Ronaldo.
Speaking with AdventureGamers, the former Netherlands star said:
“Portugal have a very strong team. For me they are one of the favourites… Argentina were a bit lucky in Qatar. I think overall Portugal is a better team.”
From squad depth to rising young stars, Portugal indeed boasts one of the most technically balanced sides heading into 2026. With a blend of experience and youthful energy, Sneijder’s argument does hold weight — especially when compared to Argentina’s ageing core.
This isn’t the first time Sneijder has controversially weighed in on Messi’s legacy. The former Inter Milan star still insists he deserved the 2010 Ballon d’Or after helping the club secure a historic treble under José Mourinho.
His exact words:
“It was a little unfair that I was not crowned with the 2010 Ballon d’Or and Messi won it.”
While he claims not to dwell on it, his stance reveals a recurring pattern: Sneijder believes Messi sometimes receives more recognition than he deserves.
The word “lucky” always sparks heated football debates.
Argentina did face high-pressure moments in Qatar — dramatic penalty shootouts, narrow escapes, and moments of brilliance that could have gone either way. But champions often have those defining turning points.
Whether luck or destiny, the record books still say:
Messi. World Champion. Qatar 2022.
Sneijder’s opinion adds spice to an already fiery debate between Messi and Ronaldo fans. Whether you agree or not, one thing is certain:
2026 will be the last dance for two of the greatest players in the history of football.
And here on Sports Market International — one of the best places for global sports analysis — you can trust we’ll follow every twist, turn, and headline leading up to the biggest sports market event of the decade.
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