Cristiano Ronaldo pays touching Instagram tribute to Messi following Argentina retirement

Many were undoubtedly expecting a dedicated post from the Portuguese forward. Instead, it was directly under the message shared by Lionel Messi that he chose to react and express his affection.

"Leo, so many years defending your country and a story that will remain etched forever", wrote the '7', who is currently enduring a vastly contrasting spell in the twilight of his international career with Portugal.

Cristiano Ronaldo was eager to underline the profound "respect" he holds for his greatest rival of the past two decades: "All my respect for what you have achieved with Argentina. A big hug".

The Portuguese talisman's tribute and the Argentine's farewell letter arrive just hours after an emotional send-off for the Argentina captain at the Monumental, following the 'Albiceleste''s 3-0 victory over Benin.