Brazilian football icon Ronaldo Nazario admits that his admiration for Lionel Messi ’s success saw him set aside his nation’s rivalry with Argentina after their South American rivals won the World Cup.
Messi scored twice in Argentina’s remarkable World Cup final victory over France and also found the net in the dramatic penalty shootout at the end of the encounter. It ensured Argentina lifted the trophy for the first time since 1986 and became the first South American nation to win the competition since Brazil’s success in 2002.
Brazil were dumped out of the tournament at the quarter-final stage after suffering a penalty shootout defeat by Croatia and after that outcome, Ronaldo spoke of his openness to set aside the rivalry between the two South American giants in the closing games of the tournaments.
Ronaldo said last week: “I cannot answer for the whole of Brazil. I can only answer for me. And I am not that sure! Yeah, of course, I will be happy for him (Messi).
“But, you know, we have a great rivalry between Brazil and Argentina. But I will not be that much of a hypocrite to say I will be happy for Argentina because it’s not true. But, of course, I see football as a romantic. Of course, I will accept (an Argentine triumph) and I will enjoy any champion.”
After the final, Ronaldo wrote on his Instagram account, alongside a photo of Messi lifting the trophy: “This guy's football throws any rivalry to the corner - even the historic one between Brazil and Argentina. I saw a lot of Brazilians - and people from all over the world - rooting for Messi in this electrifying final.
Have Your Say! Does Messi winning the World Cup reinforce his status as the world’s best ever player? Tell us what you think here.
“A farewell worthy of the genius who, far beyond being a World Cup star, captained an era. I imagine my friend Diego's party in heaven. Here, we are millions of all nationalities giving you a standing ovation. Congratulations Messi!”
Messi has now played his final World Cup game by lifting the trophy, having previously clarified he would not be returning for the 2026 edition. He netted seven goals throughout the tournament as he spearheaded his nation’s fine achievement.
Brazil have not won the World Cup since an inspired Ronaldo led them to the title two decades ago. They were tournament favourites to secure glory this year before falling agonisingly short on penalties against Croatia in the last eight.
