Buenos Aires: Lionel Messi produced a spectacular final performance for Argentina, scoring one goal and providing two assists as the world champions defeated Benin 3-0 in his final international appearance.
More than 85,000 fans packed the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires to witness the emotional farewell of Argentina’s captain. After 21 years with the national team, Messi ended his international career with another outstanding individual performance.
Two Assists Before His Goal
The first half ended goalless, but Messi took control after the break. His delivery helped Nicolas Otamendi open the scoring for Argentina.
Messi then produced another decisive pass for Nico Paz, who doubled Argentina’s advantage. The captain completed the perfect farewell when he converted a penalty to make it 3-0.
The goal took Messi’s international tally to 126 goals. He finished his Argentina career with 208 appearances, making him the country’s most-capped player as well as its all-time leading scorer.
Emotional Farewell at the Monumental
The final whistle triggered emotional scenes inside the stadium. Argentina’s players and the Benin team gathered around Messi to congratulate him, while fans celebrated their captain with chants, fireworks and a spectacular drone show.
Messi’s international career ends with a World Cup title and two Copa América championships among his major achievements with Argentina. His departure from international football marks the end of one of the most remarkable eras in Argentine football.
However, this is not the end of Messi’s playing career. The 39-year-old is set to continue his club career with Inter Miami, with his current contract running through December 2028.
For Argentina, Messi’s final night could hardly have been more fitting: one goal, two assists and a 3-0 victory in front of a packed Monumental.
