Argentina, Portugal Begin New Eras With Defeats After Messi, Ronaldo Exits

The post-Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo eras have begun on a disappointing note for Argentina and Portugal, with both former world champions suffering defeats in their first major tests without their legendary captains.

While Argentina fell to a defeat against Uruguay at a half-empty La Bombonera, Portugal endured an even more damaging night, suffering their heaviest-ever home defeat in a competitive international match after Denmark thrashed them 4-1 in Braga.

The results have raised early questions about how both nations will cope with the departures of players who have defined their footballing identities for almost two decades.

For Argentina, the defeat exposed difficulties in reproducing the attacking inspiration associated with Messi, as Uruguay capitalised on defensive weaknesses to claim victory.

Set pieces proved decisive, with Lisandro Martínez’s attempted clearance striking teammate Leonardo Balerdi and ending in Argentina’s net before Maximiliano Araújo added another from a corner.

Julián Álvarez pulled one back in the 72nd minute after an impressive run and assist from substitute Gianluca Prestianni, but Argentina could not complete a comeback.

The defeat came shortly after coach Lionel Scaloni extended his contract until 2030, although the performance offered little reassurance about the team’s transition into a future without Messi.

Portugal’s opening chapter without Ronaldo was considerably more painful.

Denmark captain Pierre-Emile Højbjerg converted a first-half penalty before Rasmus Højlund scored twice shortly after the restart. Joachim Andersen added a fourth in the 75th minute, with Bernardo Silva managing only a late consolation.

Portugal had paid tribute to Ronaldo before kick-off, with his former teammates wearing his iconic No. 7 shirts, but the occasion ended in disappointment as frustrated supporters whistled their team.

The defeat was Portugal’s heaviest-ever at home in a competitive international fixture, underlining the scale of the challenge facing the team following Ronaldo’s retirement.

The 41-year-old ended his international career as Portugal’s record appearance holder and leading goalscorer, with 146 goals in 234 matches.