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The End of an Era: Bet on Messi and Ronaldo for the Last Time

Messi and Ronaldo enter their last World Cup as teams lag behind France and Spain in betting odds. Do they still have a chance?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on June 11 at the Estadio Azteca. However, this is not just the biggest football tournament in history. It is also a farewell. Two of the greatest players the sport has ever produced will likely take the field for the very last time. For bettors, that narrative carries serious weight across every major market.

A Generation Taking Its Final Bow

Lionel Messi, 38, arrives in North America as the reigning world champion. He was confirmed in Argentina’s preliminary squad on May 11, making this his record-breaking sixth World Cup appearance. Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo, now 41, pulls on the Portugal shirt still chasing the one trophy that has eluded him throughout an otherwise flawless career. Both men made their World Cup debuts in 2006. Two decades later, they exit on the same stage.
They will not be alone in saying goodbye. Luka Modrić leads Croatia one final time, Kevin De Bruyne anchors Belgium, and Neymar pulls on Brazil’s yellow shirt for the last time. Therefore, this is not just a handful of retirees bowing out. It is an entire generation leaving together.

How the Markets Are Reacting

The sentimental storylines are colliding with hard betting reality. France and Spain are currently co-favourites at 6.00, with England at 7.50, Brazil at 9.00, and Argentina at 9.50–10.00. Portugal, carrying the weight of Ronaldo’s last shot at glory, sit at around 12.00.
Argentina face a fascinating test as back-to-back title chasers, something no team has achieved in over 60 years. Moreover, the draw has set up a potential Messi vs. Ronaldo quarterfinal showdown, which would be the most bet-on match in World Cup history.
Injury news is also reshaping the landscape. Brazil lost Rodrygo and Éder Militão before the tournament began. Mbappé is managing a hamstring issue ahead of France’s opener. Additionally, Xavi Simons will miss the tournament entirely after tearing his ACL in April. Because squads are still being finalised, odds will continue shifting through late May.

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Ready for the Action?

Squad announcements are rolling in daily, the odds are moving, and the most emotionally charged World Cup in a generation kicks off in less than a month. Register a VIP-IBC account today and make sure you are set up before the first whistle blows in Mexico City.

FIFA World Cup 2026 on VIP-IBC

The biggest tournament in football deserves the sharpest edge. Explore VIP-IBC’s FIFA World Cup 2026 section for expert previews, live odds, and everything you need to bet smarter.
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