Lionel Messi ended his international career with Argentina by recording one goal and two assists in a 3-0 friendly victory against Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. The 39-year-old forward closed out a 208-appearance career in the Albiceleste shirt in front of a sold-out crowd of 85,000 spectators.
Packed Streets and Emotional Scenes in Buenos Aires
Thousands of supporters flooded the streets surrounding the Estadio Monumental prior to kickoff, welcoming the team bus with light-blue and white fireworks. Inside the sold-out venue, the crowd roared through the national anthem while Messi stood alongside his sons, visibly moved by the occasion. The Argentina captain wore a specially designed jersey featuring his personal logo and a gold-printed number 10, while members of the 2022 World Cup-winning squad attended as invited guests.
A Slow Start Followed by a Decisive Second Half
The emotional weight of the pre-match ceremonies seemed to affect the rhythm of the Argentina squad during the opening 45 minutes, resulting in a scoreless first half. The team broke through after the interval, with Messi orchestrating the attack to finish his national team tenure with 126 goals and 69 assists across 208 matches. Following the final whistle, teammates embraced the veteran star as supporters wept in the stands, and security gently redirected a Benin player who attempted to capture a mid-match selfie on the pitch. The evening concluded with a drone show, a live concert, and a sustained ovation from the home crowd.
Reflecting on a Historic Career and Recent Loss
Addressing the stadium after the match, Messi delivered an emotional farewell speech. I think about my father a lot tonight,
Messi said, referencing the passing of Jorge Messi in early August, who had long served as his son’s business manager. Reflecting on his decades representing his country, Messi added, I have given everything. We have suffered pain, but we have also experienced very beautiful moments.
He expressed gratitude to his family, teammates, and supporters, urging fans to maintain their backing of the national team moving forward. It was my dream to wear this shirt,
Messi stated in a separate online video message. Thank you for loving me so much. I will always carry it with me.
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