Messi scores on farewell as Argentina honour legend in emotional Buenos Aires send-off

Lionel Messi closed his international career with a goal in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Benin in Buenos Aires, a friendly organised as a celebration of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s extraordinary service to his country. The occasion brought together all of Argentina’s triumphant 2022 World Cup squad to mark the end of an era.

Messi had announced his retirement from international football following Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the World Cup final, but accepted the invitation to appear one final time in front of his home supporters. The 39-year-old leaves the national team with 208 senior caps — the most in Argentina’s history — and 126 international goals, also a national record. He is the only player ever to have started three World Cup finals.

The night carried a weight that went well beyond the scoreline. Messi delivered an emotional farewell speech to supporters at the stadium, surrounded by his family and former teammates, in scenes that drew tears from players and fans alike.

The friendly served less as a competitive fixture and more as a formal goodbye — a chance for Argentina to say thank you to the player who delivered the one honour that had eluded the country for 36 years before the 2022 triumph in Qatar. From his debut as a teenager to a record-breaking final bow, Messi’s international journey spanned two decades and redefined what was possible in an Argentina shirt.