Lionel Messi's boss congratulates Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal 'for great game' after Nations League win over Spain

Argentina manager Scaloni heaped praise on Ronaldo and Portugal after their victory over Spain in the Nations League final. The 40-year-old scored before the clash went to extra time and then penalties, where Ruben Neves netted the winning spot-kick.

Messi and Ronaldo have been storied rivals throughout their careers, though neither achieved international success early on. Ronaldo won Euro 2016 before two Nations League triumphs, while Messi didn't win with Argentina until the 2021 Copa America, then claiming the World Cup a year later.

Scaloni said: "For me, Ronaldo and Messi will stop being good when they retire. Beyond their age, they are guys who not only represent a lot by playing, but also by being there, that's a lot. From here, I congratulate Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo because they played a great game. I also congratulate Spain, who ended up losing on penalties. It was a great game."

There could be one last legendary battle between the two former Ballon d'Or rivals if the stars align at next year's World Cup. Both Ronaldo and Messi seem set on playing at the 2026 tournament and their national sides will be among the favourites to claim the silverware.

Ronaldo now looks likely to stay at Al-Nassr despite recently hinting at an exit, meaning he won't feature at this month's Club World Cup. Messi, however, will be present as his Inter Miami side try to make an impact in the group stage, with games against Al-Ahly, Porto and Palmeiras on the horizon.