Argentina superstar Lionel Messi paid tribute to his countryman Diego Maradona who died at 60 on Wednesday, saying the former World Cup winning captain is eternal.

“A very sad day for all Argentines and for football. He leaves us but does not go away, because Diego is eternal,” Messi wrote on Instagram. “I keep all the beautiful moments lived with him and I wanted to take the opportunity to send my condolences to all his family and friends. RIP.”

Brazilian football great Pele mourned his fellow legend Maradona, saying he hoped they would “play together in the sky” one day.

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‘Ciao Diego’, ‘You are eternal’: Football icon Maradona dies at 60, tributes pour in

“Sad news today. I have lost a dear friend, and the world has lost a legend,” Pele wrote on Instagram, alongside a picture of Maradona hoisting the World Cup trophy in 1986.

“There is much more to say, but for now may God give his family strength. One day, I hope, we will play soccer together in the sky.”

Pele and Maradona, who often vie for the title of best footballer in history, had just celebrated milestone birthdays last month: 80 and 60, respectively.

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Pele had wished Maradona well on his birthday on October 30, writing, “May your journey be long and may you always smile, and make me smile, too!”

Maradona had likewise congratulated Pele on his 80th a week before, joining in what he called “the universal tribute to the King.”

The Brazilian and Argentine were jointly named best player of the 20th century by Fifa in 2000.

Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo also paid tribute to Maradona’s eternal genius.

“Today I say goodbye to a friend and the world says goodbye to an eternal genius. One of the best ever. An unparalleled magician. He leaves too soon, but leaves a legacy without limits and a void that will never be filled. Rest in peace, ace. You will never be forgotten,” Ronaldo tweeted.