Portugal’s captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, put aside one of football’s most intense rivalries to pay tribute to Lionel Messi, after the Argentina skipper concluded his 21 years international career
At 39, Messi gave Argentina one last dazzling performance in the iconic blue and white, scoring once and assisting twice in a 3-0 friendly victory over Benin.
The match, played before more than 85,000 fans at Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium, turned into a jubilant farewell, celebrating his extraordinary 21-year journey with the national team.
“Yesterday was my last game, and I already miss wearing the blue and white. I know I’m making the right decision,” Messi said in a lengthy Instagram post. “It’s been an incredible journey, full of joy and also some sadness, but I know for sure that every step I took was worth it…
”I don’t want to forget Diego, Maradona, who put our country where it deserved to be and who, as I always say, I know helped us both by being here with us and also from heaven, with every step we took.
”Thank you to the clubs where I played, for always respecting my feelings and allowing me to dedicate myself to my country whenever it was time to put on the national team shirt…”
Also Read: Messi retires with goal, two assists in Argentina farewell
Messi captained Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title and Copa America triumphs in 2021 and 2024, while also helping them win the 2022 Finalissima.
”I am grateful. I love you all very much; I’m going to miss you, and I will always thank you for having been by our side, by my side,” the Inter Miami playmaker added.
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have long battled for recognition as the greatest players of their generation, and the 41‑year‑old Portuguese forward was among those who reacted to the post.
”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 said.
Ronaldo, meanwhile, is embroiled in a dispute with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus following his abrupt departure from the national team’s training camp.
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