Cristiano Ronaldo pays tribute to Lionel Messi after Argentina farewell

Cristiano Ronaldo has praised Lionel Messi after the Argentina captain said he already missed representing his country following his emotional international retirement.

Messi, 39, made his final appearance for Argentina on Tuesday, delivering a decisive performance in a 3-0 friendly victory over Benin at Buenos Aires’ Estadio Monumental. In front of more than 85,000 supporters, he scored once and created two further goals as his farewell became a celebration of a 21-year international career.

“Yesterday was my last game, and I already miss wearing the blue and white. I know I’m making the right decision,” Messi wrote 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.”

Messi also paid tribute to Diego Maradona, who led Argentina to their 1986 World Cup triumph and remains a towering figure in the country’s football history.

“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,” Messi said.

The Inter Miami playmaker captained Argentina to victory at the 2022 World Cup, as well as Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024. He also helped the national side win the 2022 Finalissima.

“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 jersey,” Messi added.

“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.”

Ronaldo, the 41-year-old Portugal captain, was among those to respond to the message. The pair have spent much of their careers competing for recognition as the outstanding 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.

Ronaldo is also involved in a dispute with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus after his abrupt departure from the national team’s training camp.