Lionel Messi ended his 21-year international career for Argentina in front of 85,000 cheering fans at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, where the national team secured a 3-0 victory over Benin in a friendly match,welt.de reported.
Monumental Stadium Honors Messi
The sold-out venue in Buenos Aires erupted when the stadium announcer called out the superstar’s name for a final time ahead of kickoff. Organizers stretched a massive light blue and white jersey across the pitch bearing Messi’s iconic number 10 alongside the word “Gracias” written in large golden letters. Fireworks and thunderous chants set the tone for what local media dubbed “Messi’s last tango.”
Messi played a role in all three goals for the Albiceleste, capping his performance by converting a penalty kick with his customary composure. That strike marked his 126th and final goal for the senior national team. Before the match, Messi addressed supporters in a video posted to Instagram. “The moment has come,” Messi said in the recording. “This jersey was my dream, my pride, and my life. Thank you for loving me so much, I will miss you.”
A Journey That Began With a Red Card
The farewell against Benin marks the final chapter of an international career that began over two decades ago on August 17, 2005, against Hungary. That debut proved famously turbulent when the young substitute received a straight red card from German referee Markus Merk for violent conduct less than a minute after entering the pitch.
It took years of persistence for Messi to secure major silverware with the senior national team and fully capture the affection of his compatriots. The breakthrough arrived when Argentina won the Copa América in 2021, setting the stage for the ultimate triumph at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. He added another Copa América title in 2024, alongside runner-up finishes at the 2014 and 2026 World Cups, retiring as Argentina’s all-time record appearance maker with 208 caps and record goalscorer with 126 goals.
What are the facts of Lionel Messi's international career?
What was the final score of Lionel Messi’s last international match?
Argentina defeated Benin 3-0 at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, with Messi scoring one goal from the penalty spot and contributing to the other two.
How many total appearances and goals did Messi finish with for Argentina?
Messi concluded his international career with 208 appearances and 126 goals for the senior Albiceleste side across more than 21 years.
What major trophies did Messi win with the Argentina national team?
Messi won the Copa América in 2021 and 2024, as well as the FIFA World Cup in Qatar in 2022. He also reached the World Cup final in 2014 and 2026.
Which club team does Lionel Messi currently play for?
Messi continues his club career with Inter Miami, where he remains active following his retirement from international play.
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