The messages began arriving before kick-off and did not stop. By the morning after Argentina’s 3-0 win over Benin in Buenos Aires, every corner of football had something to say about Lionel Messi’s farewell to the national team.
The loudest voice came from an old rival. Cristiano Ronaldo left a comment under Messi’s post-match Instagram message on Wednesday.
“Leo, so many years defending your country and a story that will remain forever. All my respect for what you have achieved with Argentina. A hug.”
The comment reached 10,000 likes within 10 minutes and quickly drew thousands of replies.
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Neymar’s thank-you from Rio
Neymar posted his own tribute on Instagram on matchday, writing to the team-mate he lined up with at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain.
“It’s not only Argentina that thanks you, the whole world thanks you for everything you’ve done for football. Thank you for making me love football even more. It was an honour to have played against you, and even more so to have made history alongside you. THANK YOU, Leo Messi.”
Angel Di Maria was at the Monumental for the match itself and later shared his own words.
“The day that nobody wanted to come has officially arrived. It’s time to say goodbye to Messi. Seeing him so happy and at peace, knowing that he gave everything he had, makes all of us happy too. Thank you for everything, Leo.”
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Barcelona’s reach back to the 2008 Olympics
Barcelona waited for the final whistle before releasing its own statement, reaching back to the gold medal Messi won with Argentina at the 2008 Olympics.
“From that gold medal in Beijing in 2008 to an unforgettable career, making history every step of the way with La Albiceleste. Congratulations, Leo, for continuing to make Argentina’s jersey even more iconic!”
Sporting director Deco, who played alongside Messi at Camp Nou, added a personal line on Instagram.
“A legendary journey with the Argentine National Team. Congratulations on every chapter of an incredible career. Football and everyone who loves the sport thank you, Leo!”
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Ronaldinho, another former Barcelona team-mate, kept his tribute short.
“Enjoy life, my brother. I wish you all the best, today and always. You’re the greatest!”
On the pitch, Messi delivered a corner for Nicolas Otamendi to head Argentina in front in the 48th minute, set up Nico Paz for the second after the hour, and converted a penalty on 71 minutes for his 126th and final international goal. It closed his 208th cap, the record for the Argentina shirt.
