Messi’s Argentina farewell closes a 21-year international career
Lionel Messi scored in a 3-0 win over Benin before 85,000 supporters at Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium, in an appearance France 24 describes as his final match for Argentina.
Lionel Messi’s 21-year international career ended with Argentina’s 3-0 win over Benin in Buenos Aires, France 24 reports. The match at the Monumental Stadium drew 85,000 supporters.
Messi scored from the penalty spot in the 71st minute, his 126th international goal, and assisted Nicolás Otamendi’s opener. Nico Paz scored Argentina’s other goal.
The occasion included a minute-long ovation in the 10th minute, marking Messi’s number, and a post-match drone show. The University of Buenos Aires also awarded him an honorary doctorate before the match.
The farewell followed Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph, a defining achievement of Messi’s international career. France 24 reports he remains under contract with Inter Miami until 2028.
