Godín: I was lucky to play in the era of Messi

Uruguayan Diego Godín, former defender of Atlético, has given high praise to Argentine Lionel Messi ahead of the match that will see his last appearance with the Argentina national team, stating that facing one of the greatest football players in history was an exceptional experience despite its difficulties.

Godín stated in comments reported by RMC Sport: "I have more defeats against him than victories, and that is normal. I have faced him many times with the Uruguay national team against Argentina, as well as with Atlético against FC Barcelona. I have immense respect for him, and I believe he is the best player in history, at least in the era I have lived through."

Diego Godín is the second player to have faced Lionel Messi the most during his career, behind Sergio Ramos, having met the Argentine star in 43 matches, spending over 3400 minutes against him. Godín and Atlético managed to eliminate FC Barcelona, led by Messi, from the UEFA Champions League in the quarter-finals in 2014 and 2016, which are the only two victories the Uruguayan defender has achieved over the Argentine star.

Godín added: "I was unlucky because I played in the same era as Messi, otherwise I might have some additional league titles in my career. But he is an amazing player and a model of professionalism."

The former defender praised what Messi has achieved with Argentina, saying: "What Messi has accomplished is incredible. He played in the last World Cup as he approaches his forties, delivering an amazing performance and reaching another final. I congratulate him on his career and everything he has achieved, both with clubs and the national team. I know that winning a title with the national team remains the most important, beautiful, and impactful thing for us."

Lionel Messi is set to play his final international match for Argentina against Benin on Wednesday morning at the Estadio Monumental, in a night that the Argentine Football Association has prepared as a special celebration to honor the captain and FIFA World Cup 2022 champion.