Lionel Messi played his last international match for Argentina on Tuesday, ending a 21-year career with a 3-0 friendly victory over Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. The match marked the end of an era for the football legend, who scored one goal and provided two assists during the game.
Messi, 39, was embraced by teammates and fans alike as he stepped off the field for the last time. His final appearance saw him clutch a bouquet of 126 international goals, a record that cements his legacy as one of the greatest players in history. The crowd of 85,000 spectators witnessed a heartfelt moment as Messi turned his back on the pitch, symbolizing the end of his journey with the national team.
Messi’s farewell came after a storied career with Argentina, including a World Cup victory in 2022. His final match was a fitting send-off, with his team securing a comfortable win. Cristiano Ronaldo, a fellow football icon, expressed his respect for Messi’s achievements, highlighting the significance of his contribution to the sport.
Messi’s international career began in 2000 when he was just 17 years old. Over two decades, he became a cornerstone of Argentina’s success, leading the team to multiple Copa America titles and the 2022 World Cup. His departure marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in Argentine football history.
