An era came to an end today (Oct. 7) as Lionel Messi made his final appearance for the Argentina national team, facing African side Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. Ahead of the match, Messi released a brief farewell message: "I leave with peace of mind — I gave everything."
The stadium was packed to capacity, with tens of thousands of fans witnessing the "King of Football" pull on the national jersey one last time, writing a perfect final chapter to his glittering international career. Argentina went on to beat Benin 3-0, with Messi playing the full 90 minutes, scoring once and providing two assists — a masterful one-goal, two-assist performance to close out his international career.
In this friendly, Argentina faced Benin from Africa. Gaich won a penalty for Argentina, and Messi stepped up in the 71st minute, firing into the corner to seal the win. Together with his two assists, Messi directly contributed to three goals in his farewell match, becoming the centre of attention.
After the match, Messi said: "I'm more talkative than ever — I don't want to leave this place. I just want to tell you that I love you, and I'll miss you. I thank God, and as I've said before, I'm deeply honoured to be Argentine. I'm grateful to have achieved dreams alongside all of you. Thank you very much." Teammate Enzo Fernández was in tears throughout, weeping uncontrollably — a deeply moving scene. With the final whistle, Messi officially retired from the Argentina national team.
Tickets for tonight's match sold out rapidly, with 85,000 fans in attendance. Argentina wore specially designed jerseys, members of the 2022 World Cup-winning squad were invited to attend, and musical performances were held before, during, and after the match. The stadium's big screen played tribute videos, and in the 10th minute, the crowd gave a special ovation to the legendary No. 10. Former Barcelona teammate Neymar and Argentina teammate Rodrigo De Paul were among those who spoke, thanking Messi for his profound impact on football and on their personal lives. Outside the stadium, fans held handmade banners — gratitude and reluctance intertwined.
Wearing the blue and white stripes for 21 years, the 39-year-old Messi made 208 appearances for Argentina, featuring in six World Cups with one title (2022) and two runner-up finishes, seven Copa América tournaments with two titles, three runner-up finishes, and one third-place finish, plus one Finalissima trophy. At youth level, Messi also won the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup and the 2008 Beijing Olympic gold medal — an international career filled with honours.
(Video source: X)
Related News:
Messi announces retirement from Argentina national team: Painful decision, but time has come
Comment