Daijiworld Media Network - Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires, Oct 7: Lionel Messi brought the curtain down on his illustrious 21-year international career with an emotional farewell in front of more than 85,000 fans at the Monumental Stadium, scoring as Argentina defeated Benin 3-0 on Tuesday.
The 39-year-old made his record 208th appearance for Argentina and scored his 126th international goal, converting a penalty in the 71st minute. He also provided assists for Nicolas Otamendi and Nico Paz as Argentina secured a fitting victory in Messi's final appearance for the national team.
The occasion was about far more than the result. Messi was visibly emotional even before the match, wiping away tears as the team bus made its way through crowds of supporters. He later walked onto the pitch alongside his three children, while his wife Antonela Roccuzzo and mother Celia Cuccittini watched from the stands.
A giant Argentina jersey bearing the word "Gracias" above Messi's iconic No. 10 was displayed on the pitch before kick-off as the packed stadium erupted in applause. Messi became emotional again during the national anthem.
The match was stopped in the 10th minute to honour Argentina's legendary No. 10, with the entire stadium rising to give him a prolonged ovation. The tribute was followed by another special moment when Messi finally found the net from the penalty spot in the second half.
At the final whistle, Messi was celebrated with a spectacular drone show featuring his image, bringing an emotional close to an international career that transformed Argentina's football history.
Messi's journey with Argentina included the Copa America title in 2021, the Finalissima in 2022, the 2022 FIFA World Cup and another Copa America triumph in 2024. His World Cup triumph in Qatar ended Argentina's 36-year wait for the prestigious title and cemented his place among the country's greatest football icons.
Messi will continue his club career with Inter Miami, where he remains under contract until 2028. His departure from international football marks the end of one of the most remarkable eras in Argentina's football history.