Lionel Messi concluded his storied international career with a commanding performance, scoring once and providing two assists in Argentina`s 3-0 friendly victory over Benin at Estadio Monumental. The 39-year-old forward played the entire 90 minutes in Buenos Aires to earn his 208th cap, raising his all-time international tally to 126 goals.
A defining era in global football has reached its conclusion.
Following a goalless opening half, Argentina asserted control shortly after the restart. Nicolas Otamendi met Messi`s delivery in the 48th minute to break the deadlock, before young midfielder Nico Paz converted another Messi assist in the 61st minute to double the advantage. The captain then stepped up to convert a 71st-minute penalty kick to seal the result before an 85,000-strong sell-out crowd.
The final whistle prompted deep emotional reflections across the venue.
Addressing the supporters in a post-match speech lasting nearly ten minutes, Messi admitted that leaving the pitch was difficult while paying tribute to his father, Jorge, who passed away recently at age 68 following an extended illness. Teammates, including midfielder Enzo Fernandez, broke down in tears as the captain declared that he departs grateful, proud, and at peace. Celebrations continued with a laser light show and live musical tributes.
Messi had announced his pending international retirement in August, revealing that he drafted the decision on July 21, two days after Argentina`s defeat to Spain in the World Cup final.
His international journey began in turbulent fashion in 2005 when he received a straight red card less than a minute after coming on as a substitute against Hungary. Over two decades, the eight-time Ballon d`Or winner transformed that beginning into an unprecedented legacy, capturing the World Cup and two Copa America titles for his country.
