Lionel Messi Ends Argentina Career With Goal In Emotional Farewell Win Over Benin
Lionel Messi ended his Argentina career in style, scoring a goal and assisting two others as Argentina defeated Benin 3-0 in Buenos Aires on Tuesday.
The 39-year-old made his record-extending 208th and final appearance for Argentina in front of about 85,000 fans at the Monumental Stadium.
Nicolas Otamendi opened the scoring from a corner after Messi provided the assist, before Nico Paz doubled Argentina’s lead with a brilliant curling finish.
Messi then completed the memorable night in the 71st minute when he converted a penalty for his 126th international goal.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was emotional throughout the evening as Argentina fans celebrated his 21-year international career.
Before the match, Messi wiped away tears as the team bus made its way through crowds of supporters. He later walked onto the pitch with his three children, while his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and mother, Celia Cuccittini, watched from the VIP box.
A giant Argentina shirt with the word “Gracias” above Messi’s famous No. 10 was placed on the pitch before kick-off.
The match was also stopped in the 10th minute for a special ovation for Messi.
After the final whistle, a drone show lit up the sky with Messi’s image and messages thanking him for his career.
Messi had previously explained his decision to step away from the national team, saying:
“I gave it my all; I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are great young players coming up who deserve their chance.”
Before the game, the University of Buenos Aires also awarded Messi an honorary doctorate.
“To be able to say that I am an honorary doctor!” Messi joked after receiving the honour.
Former Barcelona teammate Neymar also paid tribute to Messi.
“It’s not just Argentina that thanks you, the world thanks you for everything you did for football. Thank you for making me love football even more,” Neymar said.
Messi leaves the Argentina national team after winning the 2022 World Cup and Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024.
His final appearance brought an emotional end to one of the most remarkable international careers in football history.
