Beunos Aires, Oct. 7 -- Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo paid tribute to long-time rival and Argentine legend Lionel Messi after his final farewell game, saying that years of defending his country are part of history which will live on forever. He also sent a "hug" to the World Cup winning icon.

Messi signed off from international football in fairytale fashion, delivering two assists and scoring a goal as Argentina cruised to a 3-0 victory over Benin in Buenos Aires on Tuesday night. In what was billed as Messi's final appearance for Argentina, the legendary forward produced another masterclass to cap a remarkable international career and leave the home crowd with an unforgettable memory.

Following the match, Messi posted a le...