By Opeyemi Adelakun
Lionel Messi ended his international career in memorable fashion on Wednesday, scoring from the penalty spot and providing two assists as Argentina defeated Benin 3-0 in Buenos Aires.
The 39-year-old, making his 208th and final appearance for Argentina, was at the heart of the farewell at the Monumental Stadium, where more than 85,000 fans gathered to honour the country’s record goalscorer.
Nicolas Otamendi opened the scoring before Nico Paz doubled Argentina’s advantage with a curling effort. Messi then completed the scoring from the penalty spot in the second half after Agustin Giay was brought down in the box.
The penalty took Messi’s international goals tally to 126, while his two assists underlined his influence on the match.
The emotional occasion included a special tribute in the 10th minute, when play was stopped and the crowd rose to applaud Messi, while a drone display later formed images celebrating his career and Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph.
Messi was visibly emotional throughout the evening, including during the national anthem and the post-match celebrations, as Argentina formally bid farewell to the player who has defined its football for more than two decades.
His international career includes the 2021 and 2024 Copa América titles and the 2022 World Cup, alongside his records for appearances and goals for Argentina.
Messi’s final appearance brings an end to a 21-year international career that began in 2005 and evolved from years of criticism into widespread adoration after he led Argentina to major international honours.
He will continue his club career with Inter Miami, but his time in the Argentina shirt has now come to an emotional close.
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