Lionel Messi Prepares for His Final Match for Argentina
- On Tuesday, 39-year-old Lionel Messi played his final international for Argentina in Buenos Aires, scoring his 126th goal in a 3-0 victory over Benin before 85,000 fans.
- Messi concluded a 21-year international career that included leading Argentina to a World Cup title and Copa America championships in 2021 and 2024, cementing his legacy.
- The match featured a 10th-minute ovation in tribute to Messi's famous shirt number; he provided an assist for Nicolas Otamendi's opener while his wife Antonela Roccuzzo and three children watched from a VIP box.
- Former Barcelona team-mate Neymar paid tribute, saying, "The world thanks you for everything you did for football," while the University in Buenos Aires awarded Messi an honorary doctorate.
- Although under contract with Inter Miami until 2028, Messi indicated he may retire sooner following his father Jorge's death two months ago, having previously stated, "I have nothing left to give.
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Lionel Messi retired from the Argentine national team following a friendly match against Benin. In his final game, Messi recorded one goal and two assists, leading his team to a 3-0 victory. He officially concluded his dedicated international career with a record of 126 goals and 70 assists in 208 matches.
Emotion, tears as Messi retires from Argentina national team
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Lionel Messi brought the curtain down on his 21-year international career on Tuesday, bidding farewell to adoring Argentina fans in an emotional final appearance for the former world champions in Buenos Aires.
Messi shines in Argentina farewell, ends 21-year career with goal and assist
Messi leaves the international stage as the most decorated figure in Argentine football history, having made 207 appearances, scored 126 goals and provided 66 assists, all records for La Albiceleste.
Der Gegner hieß Benin, ein Fußball-Niemand. Und doch kamen 85,000 Zuschauer, sie sangen, jubelten und feierten den Mann, der zwei Jahrzehnte den Weltfußball
Argentina Vs Benin Live Score, Lionel Messi Farewell Match Updates: Nico Paz Strikes Moments After Coming On, La Albiceleste Lead 2-0
Argentina Vs Benin Live Score, International Friendly 2026: Follow Argentina vs Benin live score, updates and highlights as Lionel Messi prepares for a landmark farewell in Buenos Aires, with Argentina aiming to continue their strong form
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