Cristiano Ronaldo has publicly sent a message of admiration to long-time rival Lionel Messi following the 39-year-old’s final international appearance for Argentina.
​Messi concluded his storied 21-year international career on Tuesday night, October 6, 2026, leading Argentina to a 3–0 victory over Benin in an international friendly at a packed Estadio Más Monumental in Buenos Aires.
In front of 85,000 emotional supporters, the Argentine captain set up goals for Nicolás Otamendi and Nico Paz before converting a 71st-minute penalty to notch his 126th and final international goal.
​Following the match, Messi posted a farewell statement on Instagram addressing the nation and reflecting on his journey with the Albiceleste. Shortly after, 41-year-old Portugal captain and Al-Nassr forward Cristiano Ronaldo replied directly to the post, setting aside two decades of rivalry to honor his peer.
​”Leo, so many years defending your country and a story that will live on forever. All my respect for what you have achieved with Argentina. A hug,” Ronaldo commented.
​Messi’s international swansong caps off an era defined by ultimate triumph on the international stage. After years of heartbreak, including final defeats at the 2014 FIFA World Cup and multiple Copa América tournaments, Messi orchestrated an extraordinary late-career run. He captained Argentina to victory at the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, and the 2024 Copa América.
​Speaking to the crowd during the post-match ceremony at the Monumental, an emotional Messi reflected on his decision to step aside:
​”I gave everything I had; I have nothing more to give,” Messi said. “I love all of you, and I will miss all of you. I am proud to be Argentine.”
​Messi leaves the international stage as Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player, tallying 126 goals and 68 assists across 208 appearances.
While Messi has officially retired from national team duty, both he and Ronaldo continue their professional careers at the club level, Messi with Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, and Ronaldo with Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr.
