Ronaldo to Messi: You have my full respect

Lionel Messi posted an emotional message on social media following his final match for Argentina. The 39-year-old footballer said goodbye to the national team in a 3-0 victory over Benin in Buenos Aires, scoring a goal and providing two assists. Among the thousands of reactions to his post was one from his great rival over the years, Cristiano Ronaldo.

“Leo, for so many years you have represented your country and you leave behind a story that will live forever. You have my full respect for everything you have achieved with Argentina. A hug,” Ronaldo wrote under Messi’s post.

Messi and Ronaldo were fierce rivals for many years, particularly during their respective spells at Barcelona and Real Madrid. The two faced each other in a number of memorable El Clásico encounters and became the faces of one of the strongest eras in Spanish football. The Portuguese star’s message to Messi showed the mutual respect between two of the greatest figures in the history of the game.