Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has put football’s famous rivalry aside to honour Lionel Messi after the Argentine star ended his international career. Messi, 39, played his final match for Argentina on Tuesday against Benin at Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium. He scored once and assisted twice as Argentina secured a 3-0 victory.
More than 85,000 fans filled the stadium to celebrate Messi’s remarkable 21-year journey with the national team.
Ronaldo Salutes Messi’s Historic Career
Ronaldo responded to Messi’s emotional Instagram post with a message praising his contribution to Argentina.
“Leo, after so many years of defending your country, you’ve made history that will last forever. I have the utmost respect for what you’ve accomplished with Argentina. A hug,” Ronaldo wrote.
The message highlighted the respect between two players who dominated world football for more than a decade.
Their rivalry shaped an era of football. Both stars repeatedly competed for major individual awards and faced each other during their years in Spain.
Messi Ends Argentina Career on a High
Messi delivered a memorable performance in his final appearance for Argentina.
He created the opening goal for Nicolas Otamendi before setting up Nico Paz for the second. He then scored from the penalty spot to complete the 3-0 win.
The goal was Messi’s 126th for Argentina. He also finished with 208 international appearances, both national records.
Messi leaves the national team after winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024, and the 2022 Finalissima.
Messi Reflects on His International Journey
Following the match, Messi shared an emotional message with fans.
He said he already missed wearing Argentina’s blue and white but believed he had made the right decision.
Messi also remembered the late Diego Maradona and thanked the clubs that supported his commitment to Argentina throughout his career.
His international journey included difficult moments as well as major triumphs. However, his World Cup victory in Qatar finally brought Argentina the trophy he had chased for years.
Ronaldo Faces His Own National Team Situation
Ronaldo’s tribute to Messi comes during a difficult period with Portugal. The 41-year-old recently left Portugal’s training camp after remaining on the bench during a Nations League match. However, coach Jorge Jesus has left the door open for Ronaldo to return.
Ronaldo remains Portugal’s record scorer and most-capped player. He has made 234 international appearances and scored 146 goals.
For now, his message to Messi adds another chapter to one of football’s defining rivalries. Messi’s international farewell marks the end of an extraordinary era for Argentina and world football.
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