Press reacts to Ronaldo and Messi's eliminations

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After suffering defeats at the hands of France and Uruguay, Argentina and Portugal were both knocked out of the World Cup on Saturday. The early exits of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have led sports media all over the world to once again speculate on what this means for each of their legacies. Below are a few of the most notable takes.

Lanacion, Argentina: Argentina’s fantasy was broken at the 68th minute of the match when Kylian Mbappé made his second goal. After four World Cups, Messi missed his last opportunity to fight for World Cup champion, the only trophy absent from his locker of honors. This is goodbye for a great generation of Argentinian football.

The burden of Lionel Messi's shoulder is way too heavy. /VCG Photo

Clarin, Argentina: Messi, Mascherano and their teammates had to accept the fact of being knocked out earlier than expected. This is the end. Thanks to a strong mentality, miracle and accidental opportunities, Argentina maintained their dignity. They were eliminated probably due to the frequent management changes in the past three years which had bad influence.

AS, Spain: Messi witnessed a big win of a new star. Messi, the best football player to many people again left the World Cup with disappointment. Many thought the only way he could win the World Cup trophy was in his dreams.

Le Parisien, France: Cristiano Ronaldo left the World Cup on the same day as Messi, his eternal rival. People would feel sad because June 30 was the last time these two could be seen at the World Cup. They have both hurt the Paris Saint-Germain clubs deeply before Mbappé and Cavani, two PSG strikers, killed them on the cross.

By contrast, Cristiano Ronaldo did not have to play under that much pressure. /VCG Photo

Ao Domingo, Portugal: “End of the dream.” Two defense errors led to the two goals of Cavani who ended the match for Uruguay.

ESPN, US: Ronaldo does not have to shoulder the burden like Messi does. Unlike Messi who was exposed to criticism from both media and fans in Argentina, CR7 could be assured that he is already the football hero of Portugal. It would be easier and simpler for Ronaldo to make a decision over whether to go to Qatar or not in 2022.