Lionel Messi Bids Farewell to Argentina with Win Over Benin

Lionel Messi concluded his illustrious international career with a triumphant performance, scoring one goal and providing two assists in Argentina’s 3-0 friendly victory over Benin on Tuesday. The match, played in front of more than 85,000 spectators at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, served as a farewell to the 39-year-old captain, who departed as his nation’s most decorated player.

The event transcended sport, evolving into a national celebration of Messi’s two-decade service. Across the capital, landmarks were illuminated in Argentina’s sky blue and white colors, while fireworks erupted over the stadium as fans sang the national anthem with visible emotion. Earlier in Rosario, Messi’s hometown, a large jersey bearing the message “Gracias” (Thank You) was unveiled at the National Flag Memorial.

Messi, whose family watched from the stands alongside several Argentine World Cup-winning captains from 1978, 1986, and 2022, struggled to maintain composure before the match. He noted that his thoughts were occupied by the recent death of his father.

“It’s hard to talk,” Messi said. “There are a lot of emotions… The first thing I think about is my old man.” He added, “It was a huge source of pride for me to wear this shirt all this time, more than 20 years. Not coming any more is going to hurt a lot. I swear, I’d love to keep coming my whole life, because playing for Argentina is the most beautiful thing that can happen to you.”​

The atmosphere turned emotional as the team bus carried Messi past crowds lining the route, with the player seen wiping away tears. Upon arrival, Benin’s captain presented Messi with a gift and letter during the pre-match handshake.

Following a scoreless first half, Messi provided the opening assist for Nicolas Otamendi, who tapped in the first goal. Otamendi, a teammate of Messi’s for 17 years across four World Cups, also retired from international football. Messi later set up Nico Paz, a young midfielder viewed as a potential heir to the number 10 jersey, for Argentina’s second goal. In the final moments, Messi converted a penalty to make it 3-0, securing his 126th international goal and prompting roaring chants from the crowd.

At the final whistle, teammates, opponents, and officials gathered to embrace Messi before a drone display lit up the night sky. Singer Soledad Pastorutti, known as “La Sole,” performed her hit “Brindis” as part of the tribute.

Messi leaves Argentina with a record 208 caps and the all-time scoring title, having transformed years of international heartbreak into a legacy featuring World Cup and Copa America glory. After years of demands for the star to deliver, Tuesday was dedicated to expressing gratitude.