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Cristiano Ronaldo has put years of sporting rivalry aside to pay a touching tribute to Lionel Messi following the Argentine’s final appearance for his national team. The Portuguese superstar took to social media to celebrate his long-time contemporary, acknowledging the indelible mark Messi has left on the international stage.

The footballing world stood still as Lionel Messi finally closed the curtain on his legendary international career with Argentina. Following his farewell appearance against Benin, former teammate and current Barcelona sporting director Deco joined the chorus of voices hailing the greatest player to ever grace the game.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have been locked in a career-long rivalry, with GOAT status up for grabs, but do they keep an eye on what the other is doing? CR7’s former Manchester United team-mate Anderson has told GOAL that two global superstars do “care” about the record-shattering numbers that continue to be posted on opposing sides of a fierce divide.

Lisandro Martinez, Franco Mastantuono, and Enzo Fernandez shared their emotional reactions following Lionel Messi's international farewell. The young trio admitted it will be difficult to process national team duty without their iconic captain.