India, June 25 -- Brazilian superstar Neymar Jr. offered a touching tribute to longtime friend Lionel Messi on the Argentine maestro's birthday.

After Brazil's 3-0 win over Scotland sealed their progress to the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stages, Neymar was asked in a post-match interview if he had any words for Messi on the occasion of his 39th birthday.

The Santos forward was quick to praise the Argentina captain and said their friendship extends far beyond football. "Messi is an even better person off the field," he said. When prompted by an interviewer that Messi is also great on the field, Neymar laughed in agreement.

"That's why I'm so happy to know him and have played with him. He's a great friend. We've talked a lot, including...