Lionel Messi has given his support to Spain and hopes the World Champions defend their European Championship title.

Messi said he would like to see his Barcelona team-mates which include Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Cesc Fabregas retain their title and win an unprecedented third-straight major crown.

Spain endured a difficult group stage, where they were not at their dazzling best. However, the champions were still good enough to come out as group winners and face France in their quarterfinal match on Saturday.

Messi, who was taking part in a charity soccer match in Bogota, Colombia, said he would be keeping an eye on Spain as the Euro 2012 hits the business end. "I admit that I have not been following the European Championship, I do not have a clear favourite," Messi told reporters.

"But I would like Spain to win because of the team-mates I have there."

The Barcelona and Argentina superstar was also questioned about Ronaldo's comments on Messi's ineffectiveness in the Copa America last year. However, the three-time world player of the year refused to be drawn out on making a comment. "Regarding what Cristiano said... The truth is that I have nothing to say."

Messi was taking part in his latest match of "Messi and Friends", a worldwide exhibition soccer tour which helps underprivileged children around the world.

In the match in Bogota, a "Messi and Friends XI" drew 6-6 with a "Rest of the World XI" with the likes of Robinho, Daniel Alves and Diego Forlan involved in the match.

Messi will now play an exhibition match in the Sun Life stadium in Miami on Saturday, with other superstars like Didier Drogba and Luis Suarez also expected to play.

Messi will team up with Drogba in a "Dunga's Stars" team. Dunga's Stars will take on "Capello's Masters" which will have US stars Clint Dempsey, Jozy Altidore and Carlos Bocanegra.