Ronaldo praises Messi: 'You created a legacy that will last forever'

Portugal national team captain Cristiano Ronaldo praised his historic rival Lionel Messi on Wednesday, setting aside one of the most prominent rivalries in world football after the Argentine announced that he already misses representing his country following his impactful international retirement.

Messi, 39, delivered a stunning performance for Argentina early Wednesday, scoring one goal and providing two assists in a 3-0 friendly victory over Benin in front of more than 85,000 fans at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, where his farewell match turned into a celebration of an extraordinary 21-year international career.

In a lengthy Instagram post, Messi wrote, “Yesterday’s match was my last. I already miss wearing the blue and white jersey. I know I am making the right decision. It has been an incredible journey, filled with joy and also some sadness, but I am sure every step I took was worth it.”

He added, “I do not want to forget Diego Maradona, who placed our country in the position it deserves, and who, as I always say, I know helped us, whether by his presence or by the spirit that accompanied us every step of the way.”

He continued, “I thank the clubs I played for for their constant respect for my feelings and for allowing me to focus on my country whenever it was time to wear the national team jersey.”

Messi led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title, won the Copa América in 2021 and 2024, and helped them secure the 2022 Finalissima trophy.

Throughout their highly decorated careers, Messi and Ronaldo competed for recognition as the best player of their generation, with the Portuguese forward, 41, among those who responded to the post.

Ronaldo wrote, “Leo, after all these years defending your country’s colors, you have created a legacy that will last forever. I have the utmost respect for what you have achieved with Argentina. A hug.”

Meanwhile, Ronaldo is currently in a dispute with Portugal coach Jorge Jesus following his sudden departure from the national team training camp.