Ronaldo Pays Tribute to Messi After Argentina Farewell
The Inter Miami star later said he was already missing the national team despite believing retirement was the right decision.
Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has paid tribute to Lionel Messi after the Argentine forward brought an emotional close to his international career. Photo: Times of India.
By Robert Mutasi
Portugal Star Cristiano Ronaldo has paid tribute to Lionel Messi after the Argentine forward brought an emotional close to his international career.
Messi, 39, made his final appearance for Argentina on Tuesday, October 7, producing another outstanding performance in a 3-0 friendly victory over Benin at Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium.
Playing before more than 85,000 supporters, Messi scored once and provided two assists as Argentina celebrated the end of his 21-year international career.
The Inter Miami star later said he was already missing the national team despite believing retirement was the right decision.
“Yesterday was my last game, and I already miss wearing the blue and white,” Messi said in an Instagram post.
He reflected on a career that brought Argentina the 2022 World Cup, Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024, and the 2022 Finalissima.
Messi also paid tribute to the late Diego Maradona, crediting the Argentine great with helping put the national team back among the world’s best.
Ronaldo responded to Messi’s farewell message despite their long-running rivalry for the status of the greatest player of their generation.
“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 gesture added a respectful moment to a rivalry that has shaped world football for more than a decade.
Messi and Ronaldo spent years dominating individual awards and setting records while playing for Barcelona and Real Madrid respectively. Their competition became one of the defining stories of modern football.
While Messi has now ended his Argentina career, Ronaldo’s own international future remains the subject of attention.
The 41-year-old recently left Portugal’s training camp following a reported disagreement with coach Jorge Jesus. His departure has raised questions about his relationship with the national team as Portugal prepares for future international assignments.
Messi’s farewell, meanwhile, marked the conclusion of an international journey in which he overcame years of disappointment before leading Argentina to major titles.
His final night in Buenos Aires ended with another decisive contribution and a packed stadium celebrating one of the most decorated international careers in football history.
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