The 39-year-old captain sets up Nico Paz and scores in his final international appearance as Argentina defeats Benin in Buenos Aires
BUENOS AIRES, Oct. 7 : Lionel Messi brought down the curtain on his storied international career on Tuesday night at the Estadio Monumental, scoring once and providing two assists as Argentina defeated Benin in an emotionally charged farewell match in Buenos Aires.
More than 84,000 spectators packed River Plate’s iconic stadium to witness the final chapter of Messi’s 21-year journey with the national team. The 39-year-old captain delivered a vintage playmaking masterclass, setting up midfielder Nico Paz for a crisp finish before adding a signature strike of his own to seal his final outing in the Albiceleste jersey.
Play halted briefly during the 10th minute as players from both teams, match officials, and the sellout crowd joined in a standing ovation honoring the Argentine playmaker. Benin players paused their positions to applaud Messi, reflecting the global esteem commanded by the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner throughout two decades at the pinnacle of world football.
Messi displayed remarkable sharpness across 90 minutes, repeatedly tracking back and linking up play with the squad’s emerging core. His assist to 22-year-old Paz carried symbolic weight, functioning as an on-pitch passing of the torch from Argentina’s greatest icon to the next generation of attacking talent.
Following the final whistle, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) staged an elaborate tribute featuring stadium-wide light displays, a synchronized drone show outlining the iconic number 10, and commemorative video presentations charting his journey from his 2005 senior debut to World Cup glory.
Addressing the crowd from the center circle, an emotional Messi thanked his family, coaching staff, and the supporters who stood by him through early career heartbreaks before the historic trophy run that defined his later international years.
“I leave in peace knowing I gave everything I had for this shirt and this country,” Messi told the stadium, his voice cracking with emotion. “To share these years with my teammates, whom I consider true warriors, has been the greatest privilege of my life.”
Following his speech, Messi walked through a guard of honor, embracing current squad members, former international teammates who had flown in for the match, and longtime backroom staff one by one.
Messi concludes his international tenure as Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player, having led the nation to titles at the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 Finalissima, and the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. He confirmed he will continue his club career with Major League Soccer franchise Inter Miami CF.
