Lionel Messi has ended his international career with a goal and two assists as Argentina defeated Benin 3-0 in a farewell friendly at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.
The 39-year-old forward converted a penalty to score his 126th international goal, after helping create Argentina’s first two goals, as more than 85,000 supporters gathered to witness his final appearance for the national team.
Messi set up Nicolás Otamendi for Argentina’s opening goal before assisting Nico Paz for the second, with his penalty completing the 3-0 victory.
The match brought an emotional end to a 21-year international career in which Messi became Argentina’s most-capped player, with 208 appearances, and the country’s leading goalscorer.
His international career included Argentina’s Copa América triumph in 2021, the Finalissima victory in 2022 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup title in Qatar.
Messi, who was visibly emotional during the farewell ceremony, said he was proud to have represented Argentina and reflected on the significance of ending his international career in front of his home supporters.
The farewell included tributes from teammates and supporters, while a drone display and other celebrations marked the end of an era for Argentine football.
Although he has retired from international football, Messi is expected to continue his club career with Inter Miami.
His final appearance also marked the international retirement of fellow Argentina veteran Nicolás Otamendi.