'Saddest day of my career': Messi bids emotional farewell to Argentina

Lionel Messi brought an end to his 21-year international career on Tuesday, scoring in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Benin in front of 85,000 fans at Monumental Stadium.

The 39-year-old, making a record-extending 208th international appearance, scored his 126th international goal from the penalty spot in the 71st minute. He also assisted Nicolas Otamendi for the opening goal, while Nico Paz completed the scoring.

The match was Messi’s final appearance for Argentina on home soil, with fans gathering to pay tribute to the former world champions’ captain.

“It was a huge source of pride for me to defend this jersey for more than 20 years,” Messi told supporters after the match.

“Not coming anymore is going to be deeply painful. I swear I’d like to play for the rest of my life, because playing for the Argentina national team is the most beautiful thing that can happen to you.”

Messi said he had no regrets about ending his international career, adding that the 2026 World Cup campaign had influenced his decision.

“Even though I want to be here all my life, I feel that this is the moment. The last World Cup was too much, everything I had to live through,” he said.

The forward entered the stadium alongside his three children, while his wife Antonela Roccuzzo and mother Celia Cuccittini watched from the stands.

A minute-long ovation was held in the 10th minute in honour of Messi’s iconic No.10 shirt. A drone show followed the final whistle, displaying his image and a tribute to his career.

Messi remains under contract with Inter Miami until 2028.

During his international career, Argentina won the 2022 World Cup and Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024.