Florida, June 25 -- Brazil star Neymar lavished praise on Argentina captain Lionel Messi, describing him as a "great friend" and expressing his affection for the football icon following his side's qualification for the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Speaking to reporters after Brazil's emphatic 3-0 victory over Scotland, Neymar reflected on his bond with Messi.

"He is good on the field, imagine him off it. He's a great friend. He knows I care about him a lot," Neymar said in remarks shared by DSPORTS on its X handle.

Messi and Neymar spent four seasons together at Barcelona from 2013 to 2017. During their time at the club, the duo lifted eight major trophies, including two La Liga titles (2014-15, 2015-16), three Copa del R...