Ronaldinho’s surprise praise: ‘Argentina is passion, fighting spirit – and they have Messi’

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In a remarkable twist ahead of Sunday’s World Cup final, Brazilian football icon Ronaldinho Gaúcho has heaped praise on Argentina – the nation he grew up regarding as his country’s fiercest rival. The 2002 World Cup winner and two-time FIFA World Player of the Year, speaking in an interview with L’Équipe at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris, offered a glowing tribute to La Albiceleste and their legendary captain Lionel Messi.

“Argentina is Argentina, it has always been that way,” Ronaldinho said, a knowing smile spreading across his face. “Argentina is about passion, fighting spirit, and once again they are reaching this stage in the same manner. That’s what Argentina is all about.”

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From Fierce Rival to Admiring Observer

For a Brazilian to publicly praise Argentina is unusual enough. But Ronaldinho’s comments went far beyond mere sportsmanship. The man who mesmerized the world with his dazzling skills at the 2002 World Cup, where he famously lobbed England goalkeeper David Seaman, expressed genuine admiration for the way Lionel Scaloni’s side has navigated this tournament.

“It’s a style of football I enjoy watching,” he explained. “The commitment of the players in every match is incredible. They fight for every ball, they press, they cover for each other – and they have the humility to run for their captain.”

Ronaldinho’s praise carried particular weight given his history with Messi. The two shared a dressing room at Barcelona between 2004 and 2008, with Ronaldinho famously predicting the young Argentine’s greatness when he first saw him as a teenager. “I knew back then he would become the best,” Ronaldinho recalled. “But I don’t think even I imagined he would still be doing this at 39 years old.”

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The Messi Factor

Ronaldinho reserved his most effusive words for Argentina’s captain, who has been the heartbeat of his country’s campaign. With eight goals and four assists, Messi has directly contributed to 12 of Argentina’s 16 tournament goals – a staggering 75% involvement.

“And they have Messi,” Ronaldinho said, his tone shifting to one of reverence. “He can solve the team’s problems, while the team has the humility to run for him. They know when to give him the ball – in the right spaces, at the right moments. They understand that he can make the difference and decide games.”

Ronaldinho’s observation about humility is key. Argentina’s players – from Julián Álvarez to Enzo Fernández to Nahuel Molina – have consistently spoken about their willingness to run, press, and sacrifice for their captain. The team’s work rate has been formidable: Argentina have covered more ground than any other side at this World Cup, averaging 118 kilometers per match.

“The unity they have as a team is beautiful to watch,” Ronaldinho added. “It’s not just talent – it’s brotherhood. When you have that, you can achieve anything.”

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A Tactical Analysis from a Master

Ronaldinho also offered insight into what makes Argentina so difficult to beat – and why he believes they have the edge heading into the final against Spain.

“Spain control games with possession. They’re elegant, they’re structured,” he analyzed. “But Argentina have something different. They have chaos – controlled chaos. They can hurt you in transition, they can hurt you from set-pieces, and they have a player who can create something out of nothing.”

He also highlighted Argentina’s defensive resilience. Despite conceding seven goals in seven matches – more than Spain’s single concession – Argentina have shown an ability to absorb pressure and strike on the counter. “They don’t panic,” Ronaldinho noted. “Even when they’re behind, they stay calm. That comes from experience – and from Messi.”

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A Warning to Spain

Ronaldinho’s comments could serve as a warning to Luis de la Fuente’s Spanish side, who enter the final as favorites. Spain have been the tournament’s most complete team, conceding just once, but Ronaldinho believes Argentina’s fighting spirit and Messi’s genius could prove decisive.

“Spain have been brilliant – no doubt,” he conceded. “But Argentina in a final is different. They have this energy, this belief. And when you have Messi on the pitch, anything is possible.”

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The Rivalry That Transcends Football

Perhaps the most striking aspect of Ronaldinho’s praise is its source. Brazilian fans famously chant “Messi is a joke” as a dig at their Argentine rivals. Yet here was one of Brazil’s greatest ever players openly admiring their fiercest foe.

“Football is about respect,” Ronaldinho explained. “I grew up wanting to beat Argentina every time we played. But I also grew up watching them and appreciating what they bring to the game. You can be rivals and still admire greatness.”

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The Final Showdown

As Argentina prepare to face Spain at MetLife Stadium, Ronaldinho’s words offer a powerful endorsement of their approach. For all the tactical analyses and statistical breakdowns, the former Barcelona superstar believes that the emotional and psychological factors – Argentina’s passion, their unity, and their unparalleled captain – will be the decisive elements.

“This is the game everyone wants to see,” Ronaldinho concluded. “Spain’s collective brilliance against Argentina’s spirit and Messi’s magic. I can’t wait to watch. And if Argentina win, it will be because they deserve it – because they’ve been extraordinary.”

For the millions of Argentine fans dreaming of a second consecutive World Cup, Ronaldinho’s unexpected praise will feel like validation from an unlikely but deeply respected source. The man who once danced past England’s defense now believes Argentina can dance all the way to the trophy.