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Mon 26 Oct 2026 EN
· · 8 sources ·Updated

Lionel Messi ends Argentina career with goal and two assists against Benin

Lionel Messi concluded his international career by scoring a goal and providing two assists in a 3-0 friendly victory for Argentina over Benin on Tuesday at the Monumental Stadium.

Messi readies for final farewell in Argentina send-off
File photo Messi readies for final farewell in Argentina send-off Photo: Dawn

Emotional farewell to the captain

Messi described retiring from international football as the saddest day of his career. He stated that not playing again would be deeply painful for him. The match was attended by more than 85,000 fans at a packed stadium in Buenos Aires.

Tributes from teammates and friends

Former teammate Neymar posted on social media to express gratitude for Messi's impact on the sport. Angel Di Maria noted that seeing Messi happy was a special moment for everyone involved. Current teammate Rodrigo De Paul shared how Messi helped him grow as a person.

Record-breaking international statistics

The 39-year-old finished his tenure with 208 senior caps for the national team. His total of 126 goals remains the highest record in Argentina history. This final appearance marked the end of a 21-year spell representing his country.

8 outlets, different leads

  • Express Tribune

    Messi readies for final farewell in Argentina send-off

  • Dawn

    Messi readies for final farewell in Argentina send-off

  • Business Recorder

    Messi farewell closes a long, hard-won love story with Argentina

  • France 24

    Messi set for final emotional farewell in Argentina send-off

  • The Guardian

    Lionel Messi has completed football and can bid Argentina farewell with pride

  • South China Morning Post

    End of an era: Lionel Messi prepares to hang up Argentina boots with monumental farewell

  • ESPN

    Messi marks final Argentina game with goal in tearful 'last tango'

  • Sky Sports

    Messi ends Argentina career with goal on emotional night

Reported by

8 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.