Messi Scores in Emotional Final Appearance for Argentina

Lionel Messi brought his international career with Argentina to a close on Tuesday night, scoring in the 71st minute of a friendly against Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.

The appearance marked the end of a 21-year run with Argentina for the 39-year-old forward. Messi addressed those present after the final whistle and described playing for the national team as “the most beautiful thing.”

A night of tributes in Buenos Aires

Emotion was visible before the match, with Messi and Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni appearing moved during the national anthems.

The match was also stopped in the 10th minute for a standing ovation honouring Messi’s shirt number. Fireworks and chants from the crowd accompanied the tribute at the Buenos Aires stadium.

Fernando Rodriguez, who attended the match, said Messi had left a legacy of “determination and unity, especially for the people of Argentina.” Rodriguez added that the player “leaves behind a sense of community and shows that great things are always possible.”

Another fan, Ariel Cinquemani, said Messi’s appeal extended widely because of his distinct qualities. “Everyone loves him, they love him everywhere, they recognise him because the guy is unique,” Cinquemani said.

A record-setting international career

Messi is Argentina’s most capped player and its record goal scorer, with 126 goals in 208 appearances. He made his international debut in 2005 at the age of 18 and became captain in 2011.

As captain, Messi led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title and Copa America triumphs in 2021 and 2024. His final appearance against Benin added one more goal to a record-breaking international career.