Lionel Messi has ended his extraordinary international career with a goal and two assists as Argentina beat Benin 3-0 in Buenos Aires on Tuesday night.
The victory gave Messi a farewell worthy of one of the most influential players in football history, with an emotional home crowd celebrating both the result and the journey that took him from repeated disappointment with Argentina to the summit of the international game.
The tribute began in the 10th minute, when play was stopped and the full stadium rose to applaud the Argentina captain. Wearing the number 10 shirt, Messi stood at the heart of the occasion and acknowledged supporters who have watched him produce some of the most memorable moments in the country’s football history.
Benin, however, refused to act as passive participants in the ceremony. The African side defended in an organised manner and posed a threat on the counter-attack, requiring several important first-half saves from Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
Argentina enjoyed most of the possession but could not find their usual fluency before the interval. Messi went close twice, yet neither side could break the deadlock and the opening half finished goalless.
The second half finally delivered the moments the Buenos Aires crowd had been waiting for.
Messi first made his impact as a provider. His dangerous corner found Nicolas Otamendi, who produced a superb volley to put Argentina ahead.
The captain then created the second goal with another piece of individual quality. He picked out Nico Paz, who struck a spectacular effort from outside the penalty area to extend Argentina’s lead.
With around 20 minutes remaining, Argentina were awarded a penalty and Messi took responsibility. Showing the calmness that has characterised his career, he sent the goalkeeper the wrong way before placing the ball into the net.
The goal was significant beyond the scoreline: it was Messi’s final goal for Argentina.
When the final whistle was blown, Buenos Aires erupted. Messi had signed off in the famous Albiceleste shirt with a goal and two assists, providing a final display that reflected the quality and influence of his international career.
His time with Argentina began with the pain of losing major finals, before he eventually lifted the Copa America and the World Cup. That progression from frustration to international success became one of the defining stories of his career.
Messi now leaves the Argentina national team as a champion and record-breaker, as well as an enduring symbol of Argentine football. His international journey has ended after years of unforgettable moments, with one last performance in front of the supporters who have adored him for generations.
