Former Brazilian playmaker Ronaldinho Gaúcho shared a public tribute to Lionel Messi ahead of the forward’s farewell appearance for Argentina. The longtime captain brought his senior international career to a close after reaching 208 caps for his national squad.
The heartfelt tribute appeared on social media on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, moments before the Argentine captain walked out at the Estadio Monumental de Núñez in Buenos Aires. Visible emotion marked the buildup to kickoff, with television cameras capturing Messi in tears aboard the team bus traveling toward the venue.
In his online message, Ronaldo de Assis Moreira looked back on the years they spent side by side during the early stages of Messi’s European career. The former midfielder also highlighted the distinction that both players share after lifting the World Cup for their respective countries.
Qué placer y qué alegría haber formado parte de tu historia desde el primer día hermano! Nos hiciste sonreír y disfrutar tanto del fútbol!!! Tu nombre está en la historia de tu país, de todo el mundo… Solo nosotros sabemos la alegría que sentimos al cumplir nuestro sueño de infancia, representar a toda nuestra nación y ser campeones del mundo!!!! Lo diste todo por tu selección y por tu país… Te entiendo perfectamente y sé que todo lo relacionado con la familia nos hace replantearnos las cosas… Disfruta de la vida, hermano. Te deseo lo mejor, hoy y siempre
— Ronaldinho (@10Ronaldinho) October 6, 2026
“What a pleasure and what a joy to have been part of your story from day one, brother,” Ronaldinho Gaúcho wrote. “You made us smile and gave us so much joy through football. Your name is written in the history of your country, of the entire world. Only we know the joy of fulfilling that childhood dream, representing our nation and becoming world champions. You gave everything for your national team and for your country. I understand you completely, and I know that everything related to family makes us rethink things. Enjoy life, brother. I wish you the very best, today and always.”
Argentina defeats Benin in commanding display for captain’s farewell
A capacity crowd of 85,000 spectators gathered at the Estadio Monumental de Núñez on the evening of October 6, 2026, to witness the final match. Managed by head coach Lionel Scaloni, the squad took on Benin in an international friendly that kicked off at 20:00 Brasília time.
On the pitch, Lionel Messi played a decisive role in all three goals of the 3-0 victory. The forward found the net once and set up his teammates with two assists before the final whistle blew in Buenos Aires.
Former teammate Neymar also published a tribute on social media honoring the Argentine icon on the same date. The forward congratulated his longtime friend on an extraordinary career and emphasized the worldwide gratitude for his contributions to the sport.
Barcelona roots established enduring bond between South American greats
The close friendship between Ronaldinho Gaúcho and Lionel Messi traces back to Barcelona, where the Brazilian played between 2003 and 2008. The Argentine forward broke into the senior squad in 2004 at the age of 17, quickly earning the support of the established roster.
On May 1, 2005, Messi recorded his maiden official goal for Barcelona during a fixture against Albacete, converting a lifted pass from Ronaldinho. Their mutual affection remained strong long after the Brazilian playmaker departed the Spanish club.
On the international stage, each forward captured football’s ultimate honor by lifting the World Cup trophy. Ronaldinho Gaúcho secured the title in 2002, while Messi guided Argentina to glory two decades later in 2022.
Key details and match summary from international finale
- Opponent and score: Argentina 3, Benin 0
- Individual statistics: 1 goal and 2 assists
- Attendance at Estadio Monumental de Núñez: 85,000 supporters
- Total senior international caps: 208 matches
- Date and start time: Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 20:00 Brasília time
The international friendly against Benin officially concluded Lionel Messi’s era with the Albiceleste. Team officials confirmed that the iconic number 10 will no longer wear the national jersey in competitive or exhibition matches.
