Lionel Messi played his last international match for Argentina in a 3-0 friendly victory over Benin, ending a 21-year career with a goal in the 71st minute. The match took place at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, in front of a sold-out crowd of 85,000 fans. Messi, the most-capped player in Argentina’s history, scored his final goal for the national team, marking the end of an era.
Messi’s farewell was emotional, with the player describing his retirement as the “saddest day of my career.” He had previously lost the 2022 World Cup final to Spain, and his decision to hang up his boots came two-and-a-half months after that defeat. The match against Benin served as a fitting send-off, with Argentina securing a comfortable win.
Cristiano Ronaldo, a long-time rival, publicly praised Messi’s achievements, expressing “utmost respect” for his career. Messi’s final post on social media highlighted his gratitude for the support from fans and teammates. The game also saw Argentina’s young players shine, with several contributing to the victory.
Messi’s international career was defined by 18 World Cup appearances, five Copa América titles, and a record 189 caps. His final match symbolized the end of a golden age for Argentine football, with fans and players alike honoring his legacy. The event was a celebration of a career that redefined the sport, leaving a lasting impact on the global stage.
