Legendary player Cristiano Ronaldo was not eager to respond to too many questions regarding Argentina star Lionel Messi as he silenced his critics with a brace against Uzbekistan in Portugal’s crushing 5-0 victory in their second Group K encounter on Tuesday. After the game, Ronaldo talked to the media in the mixed zone about how ‘dark’ the past week had been for him and how it seemed like he had given up football. The Portuguese forward, who enjoys being in the spotlight, was reluctant to respond to a question on his rivalry with Messi. He also sidestepped a reporter’s inquiry because it was about his rival.
Even when their careers are coming to an end, Ronaldo and Messi are still the biggest talking points in the news. Messi has so far led the FIFA World Cup 2026 scoring statistics with five goals in two games, while Ronaldo scored two goals in his second game after Portugal’s opening match ended in a scoreless tie.
Ronaldo Ignores Messi Question
Questions about parallels and the rivalry with Messi were inevitable as he arrived to address the media. Ronaldo was seen avoiding a journalist who attempted to inquire about Messi in a video that went viral on social media.
In the post-game mixed zone, a reporter started asking, “Yesterday, Lionel Messi scored two goals, [Kylian] Mbappe Ronaldo…” turned to face the other reporter and responded, “Vale (Go on),” in response to another question.
Ronaldo On Potential Argentina Clash
Another reporter asked Ronaldo if they may ask a question during his conversation with the media, which prompted a lighthearted response. “That depends on the question; otherwise I won’t answer you,” he said.
When a reporter asked the 41-year-old what he felt about playing Messi’s Argentina later in the tournament, he briefly discussed it.
“I don’t know how to answer. It’s a question that doesn’t make much sense. But, well, it would be top,” Ronaldo said.
Another reporter started questioning Ronaldo about Messi as he was ready to leave the mixed zone. But the Portuguese icon was not happy.
With just four points from their first two games, Portugal has not yet secured their spot in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32, but Messi’s Argentina has already advanced.
