AMSTERDAM, Nov 12 (V7N) — With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, football fans worldwide are speculating about who will lift the trophy and claim individual honors such as the Golden Boot or Golden Ball. Former Netherlands star Wesley Sneijder has added his perspective, offering insights on the Ronaldo-Messi debate.

In a recent interview, Sneijder described comparing Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi as “foolish,” emphasizing that both players are distinct in style and impact. Drawing historical parallels, he noted, “Just as it is impossible to compare Cruyff, Pele, and Maradona directly, Messi and Ronaldo cannot be measured on the same scale.”

However, when asked about potential 2026 World Cup champions, Sneijder favored Ronaldo’s Portugal. “Portugal is a very strong team. In my opinion, Ronaldo has a higher chance of winning the World Cup than Messi,” he stated.

Despite being in the twilight of their careers—Ronaldo will be 41 and Messi 39 in 2026—both players continue to deliver remarkable goal-scoring consistency, breaking each other’s records along the way. Messi achieved his lifelong dream by leading Argentina to victory at the 2022 Qatar World Cup, scoring seven goals and providing three assists, earning the Golden Ball. Sneijder commented, “Argentina played wonderfully in Qatar, and luck was on their side.”

Ronaldo’s international achievements are also impressive. He has won the 2016 UEFA European Championship and the UEFA Nations League twice with Portugal.

Sneijder himself enjoyed an illustrious career, scoring 32 goals and providing 31 assists in 134 appearances for the Netherlands. He played for top clubs including Ajax, Real Madrid, Inter Milan, and Galatasaray, winning major league titles in the Netherlands, Italy, Turkey, and Spain, as well as the UEFA Champions League with Inter Milan. Widely regarded as one of the finest midfielders of his generation, he was also known for his expertise in dead-ball situations.

Ultimately, Sneijder considers both Messi and Ronaldo legends. “Whenever I am asked such questions, I give half my vote to Messi and half to Ronaldo,” he concluded.

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