Lionel Messi played his last international match for Argentina in a friendly against Benin, scoring a goal in the 71st minute. The match ended 3-0 in favor of Argentina. Messi, 39, concluded his 21-year career with the national team. The game took place in a tearful atmosphere, with fans and players honoring his legacy.
Messi’s final appearance came after a series of high-stakes matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Argentina reached the final but lost to Spain. Messi attributed the loss to the physical and emotional toll of the semi-final against England. He also addressed claims of refereeing favoritism, insisting that all results were earned through hard work.
Before the World Cup, Messi had already announced his retirement from international football. His farewell was marked by emotional moments, including a goal that symbolized the end of an era. Cristiano Ronaldo, a long-time rival, sent a respectful message to Messi, acknowledging his achievements. Ronaldo’s tribute came after Messi’s final game, highlighting the mutual respect between the two legends.
Messi’s career with Argentina was defined by consistency and leadership. He captained the team through multiple World Cup campaigns and was a key figure in their success. His final match was a fitting end to a career that spanned over two decades, leaving a lasting impact on football history.
