Luka Modric reflects on rivalry with Lionel Messi after retirement
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 7, 2026, 8:40 AM
Last updated Oct 7, 2026
Luka Modric spoke about his long-standing rivalry with Lionel Messi following Messi's retirement from international football. The former Real Madrid star faced Messi 27 times, winning 10, drawing 5, and losing 12 times. Modric expressed admiration for Messi despite the challenges he posed, acknowledging Messi's achievement of winning the World Cup with Argentina. Modric stated that it has been a pleasure to watch Messi play, even as he admits to suffering against him throughout their encounters.
- •Modric faced Messi 27 times in club and international matches.
- •He won 10, drew 5, and lost 12 of those encounters.
- •Modric praised Messi's career and World Cup achievement.
- •He expressed admiration despite the difficulties of competing against Messi.
- 8:40 AMYahoo Sports — Real Madrid legend Luka Modric admits Lionel Messi made him “suffer a lot”
"Luka Modric has offered a revealing reflection on his long rivalry with Lionel Messi following the Barcelona legend’s farewell to international football.Notably, the former Real Madrid midfielder fa...
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