Lionel Messi Argentina farewell ended with a goal and two assists in a 3-0 victory over Benin, closing his 21-year international career.
BUENOS AIRES: Lionel Messi brought his remarkable international football career to an emotional close as Argentina defeated Benin 3-0 in a farewell friendly at the Monumental Stadium on October 6, 2026.
The 39-year-old captain scored once and provided two assists in front of more than 85,000 supporters, delivering a memorable final performance for his country.
The Lionel Messi Argentina farewell marked the end of a 21-year international journey that included a FIFA World Cup victory, two Copa América titles and numerous individual records.
How did Messi perform in his final Argentina match?
Messi played a decisive role in all three goals as Argentina secured a comfortable victory.
After a goalless first half, he delivered a corner that Nicolás Otamendi converted in the 48th minute.
He then assisted Nico Paz, who doubled Argentina’s advantage in the 61st minute.
Messi completed the scoring from the penalty spot in the 71st minute, registering his 126th international goal.
His performance offered supporters one final reminder of the creativity, precision and leadership that defined his years in Argentina’s famous blue-and-white shirt.
Why was Messi’s farewell so emotional?
The stadium was filled with tributes celebrating the Argentine captain’s extraordinary career.
Messi entered the pitch alongside his three children and appeared visibly emotional during the pre-match ceremonies.
Supporters held up banners, applauded his achievements and celebrated his famous number 10 shirt.
A minute-long ovation took place during the tenth minute, while fireworks and a drone display added to the farewell celebrations.
After the match, Messi addressed supporters and thanked those who had supported him throughout his international journey.
What records does Messi leave behind?
Messi finishes his Argentina career with 208 international appearances and 126 goals, according to Reuters and Associated Press.
His greatest international triumph came in 2022, when he captained Argentina to the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
He also helped the country win the Copa América in 2021 and 2024.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner made his senior international debut against Hungary in August 2005.
Although his national team journey has ended, Messi will continue playing club football for Inter Miami.
Impact to expect
The Lionel Messi Argentina farewell marks an important transition for Argentine football. Coach Lionel Scaloni and the national team will increasingly rely on younger players to lead future international campaigns, while Messi’s achievements remain a lasting influence on emerging footballers worldwide.
For millions of supporters, the farewell represents the conclusion of a defining chapter in Argentina’s football history.
