Lionel Messi retired from Argentina duty after scoring in a 3-0 win over Benin before 85,000 supporters in Buenos Aires.
A record-setting final appearance
On Oct 6, Messi concluded a 21-year international career with his 126th international goal and his record-extending 208th appearance.
He provided the assist for veteran Nicolas Otamendi's opening goal, with Nico Paz also scoring. The match was halted in the 10th minute for a minute-long ovation in tribute to Messi's famous shirt number, before he completed the farewell with a penalty in the 71st minute. Accounts differed on whether he provided one assist or two.
It was a huge source of pride for me to defend this jersey for more than 20 years
Not coming anymore is going to be deeply painful. I swear I'd like to play for the rest of my life, because playing for the Argentina national team is the most beautiful thing that can happen to you.
The end of an era of titles
- 2021Copa America
Argentina were crowned Copa America champions.
- 2022World Cup
Messi captained Argentina to the title, ending the country's 36-year wait for a third World Cup.
- 2024Copa America
Argentina won another Copa America title.
- 2026Final defeat
Argentina lost the World Cup final to Spain in New Jersey.
- Oct 6Buenos Aires farewell
Messi scored in a 3-0 victory over Benin.
The goodbye followed Argentina's World Cup final defeat to Spain in New Jersey two-and-a-half months earlier. Messi left in tears after the ill-tempered 1-0 loss. During his time with Argentina, the team won one World Cup, finished runners-up twice and also won the 2022 Finalissima.
A giant Argentina jersey bearing the word "Gracias" above Messi's No. 10 was laid out on the pitch before kickoff. He welled up again as Falklands War veteran Fabio Santana sang the national anthem beside a banner reading "The Malvinas are Argentine". At the final whistle, a drone show displayed Messi's image and thanked the eight-time Ballon D'Or winner.
The University of Buenos Aires gave Messi an honorary doctorate at the Argentine Football Association headquarters before the game. Outside, fans unfurled a huge Argentina flag showing his image and the words "The joy of my life."
He is unique
I have never seen such a set of skills in any other player in all my life.
Leo, after so many years of defending your country, you've made history that will last forever. I have the utmost respect for what you've accomplished with Argentina. A hug
Messi remains under contract with Inter Miami until 2028. He said he might end his playing career sooner than anticipated, and no next playing date was specified.
