Lionel Messi Shares First Words Hours After Cristiano Ronaldo Ended Decade-Long ‘Rivalry’

It’s been some year for Argentine maestro Lionel Messi. Now, shortly after playing his first game in the colors of La Albiceleste since the World Cup final, Messi has shared his first words about featuring for the international side on social media. This comes shortly after fellow rival Cristiano Ronaldo made a statement arguably ending the ‘rivalry’ between the pair. Ronaldo suggested that his fans “don’t have to hate Messi” and that the pair have “changed the history of football”.

After winning the World Cup in Qatar in 2022, Messi won the Ligue 1 title with PSG. Soon after, he transferred to Inter Miami and has lit up the MLS with some delightful performances. Messi is also favorite to pick up the Ballon d’Or award this year. And now Messi has made a statement following the recent World Cup qualifier.

Messi makes statement on Instagram after Argentina win vs Ecuador

Messi captained Argentina for the first time since lifting the World Cup in Qatar in 2022 against Ecuador. The Argentine icon took to social media to thank fans for their support after the game.

Messi’s post on his official Instagram account, translated to English via deepL stated: “A very valuable triumph to start this new path! Thanks to all of you for your support once again!!!”

Messi further used the hashtag: #VamosArgentina aka “Come on Argentina. “This comes after Messi started life in the MLS for Inter Miami in spectacular fashion. The Argentine superstar has scored 11 goals and made 8 assists for Inter Miami in 11 games while igniting Messi-mania in the US.

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Messi scores a free kick to beat Ecuador 1-0 in 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier

However, in this game, while captaining Argentina against Ecuador, Messi’s brilliance was on show once again. The Argentine World Cup-winning captain scored a sumptuous free kick to give Argentina a 1-0 win over Ecuador.

The goal came in the 78th minute, as Messi struck a curling effort into the top corner leaving the Ecuador goalkeeper stranded.

This was the first game in Argentina’s CONMEBOL 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The match was played during the ongoing international break, which sees clubs take a short break from the regular season to accommodate international fixtures. Meanwhile, Messi’s contemporary and rival Cristiano Ronaldo also posted about joining the Portugal national setup on X.

Cristiano Ronaldo led Portugal to play Slovakia in their Euro 2024 Qualifier game later today. And it’s certain that Ronaldo will look to emulate Messi by trying to score and lead his country to a win as well.

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