Graphics by Alfred Espina

Lionel Messi ended his 21-year international career with a goal and two assists as Argentina defeated Benin, 3-0, in his final appearance for the national team at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, Tuesday, October 6.

The 39-year-old entered the match for his record-extending 208th appearance for Argentina as more than 85,000 fans gathered to witness his farewell.

Messi fought back tears before kickoff as he walked onto the pitch alongside his three children for the final time in Argentina’s colors.

A giant Argentina jersey bearing “Gracias” and his iconic No. 10 was displayed on the field before the match.

The game was stopped in the 10th minute for a minute-long ovation honoring Messi’s famous shirt number.

Messi then capped the farewell with a penalty in the 71st minute to score his 126th international goal.

He also assisted Nicolas Otamendi for Argentina’s opening goal before Nico Paz added another to complete the 3-0 victory.

After the final whistle, Messi addressed the emotional crowd and reflected on his more than two decades with the national team. “It was a huge source of pride for me to defend this jersey for more than 20 years,” Messi said.

Messi leaves Argentina as its most-capped player and all-time leading scorer, having helped the country win the 2022 World Cup and Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024.

The farewell comes two and a half months after Argentina lost to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, Messi’s final appearance in the tournament.

Despite ending his international career, Messi remains under contract with Inter Miami through 2028.

Article by Fiona Rubenecia