Cristiano Ronaldo pens heartfelt message for Lionel Messi after Argentina farewell

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New Delhi: Cristiano Ronaldo has written a tributal message for Lionel Messi, who has played his last game for Argentina.

The long-time football rival of his fellow countryman Messi, Ronaldo lauded his ex-opponent for his role in Argentina and said the history he forged would be everlasting.

Messi played his last game for Argentina on October 6th, against Benin in Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.

Lionel Messi scored once and set up two goals as Argentina beat the Netherlands 3-0, with more than 85,000 supporters as the 39-year-old was given an emotional send-off after 21 years in the national team.

Following the game, he posted an emotional message on social media saying he already missed wearing Argentina’s iconic blue-and-white striped shirt and that he believed he had been right to retire from international football.

Ronaldo then commented on Messi’s post with a respectful message. The Portuguese forward commented how Messi had played for Argentina for so many years and was proud of his World Cup win.

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The Portuguese international’s tweet came despite the world football’s long-standing battle between the two players.

A memorable ending to international football for Messi. Messi ended his international career with 208 caps and 126 goals for Argentina. He also guided his homeland to 2021 and 2024 Copa America success and 2022 FIFA World Cup glory.

Messi and Ronaldo rivalry The competition between Messi and Ronaldo has been one of the more interesting stories of modern football. The two players went head-to-head for numerous player of the year awards and also regularly clashed during their time in Spanish football, with Messi at Barcelona and Ronaldo at Real Madrid.

While their stans might be at each other’s throats, Ronaldo’s message revealed another aspect of his relationship with his idol. Ronaldo’s tribute has also highlighted the respect that two football greats have for one another, having helped define the game over 15 years.

Messi will now continue his club career with Inter Miami, while his international retirement brings an emotional end to one of the longest and most celebrated chapters of his career.

Also Read: Lionel Messi bids emotional farewell to Argentina after 3-0 win over Benin

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