Argentina: Lionel Messi ended his 21-year international career on Tuesday, making his final appearance for Argentina in a 3-0 victory over Benin before 85,000 supporters at Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium.
The 39-year-old scored his 126th international goal from the penalty spot in the 71st minute and assisted Nicolas Otamendi for Argentina’s opening goal. Nico Paz also scored as the world champions secured victory in Messi’s record-extending 208th international appearance.
Messi was visibly emotional throughout the farewell ceremony, which was billed as “The Last Tango”. He entered the stadium with his three children and received a farewell from his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and mother, Celia Cuccittini.
“It was a huge source of pride for me to defend this jersey for more than 20 years,” Messi told supporters after the match, adding that ending his international career would be painful.
The match was briefly stopped in the 10th minute for an ovation in honor of Messi’s iconic shirt number. A drone show later displayed his image over the stadium as supporters paid tribute to his career.
Why did Lionel Messi retire from Argentina’s national team?
Messi said he had no regrets about his decision and cited the physical and emotional demands of Argentina’s World Cup campaign as a factor.
The farewell came two and a half months after Argentina lost the 2026 World Cup final to Spain in New Jersey. Messi said at the time that he had given everything and believed younger players deserved an opportunity.
Messi led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title, ending the country’s 36-year wait for the trophy. He also helped Argentina win the Copa America in 2021 and 2024.
What did Lionel Messi achieve with Argentina?
During his international career, Messi became Argentina’s record appearance holder and leading scorer, finishing with 208 caps and 126 goals.
He won one World Cup and finished as a World Cup runner-up twice, including the 2014 final against Germany and the 2026 final against Spain. He also won two Copa America titles.
Messi remains under contract with Inter Miami until 2028, although he has indicated that he could retire from professional football sooner following the death of his father, Jorge, two months ago.
Former Barcelona teammate Neymar paid tribute to Messi, saying the football world owed him thanks for his contribution to the sport.