Lionel Messi scored in his farewell international match as Argentina defeated Benin 3-0 in a friendly. The 39-year-old forward, who announced his retirement from international football, opened the scoring with a goal in the first half. Argentina maintained their dominance throughout the match, with additional goals from Enzo Fernández and Julián Álvarez. The game took place in Buenos Aires, marking the end of Messi’s 21-year career with the national team.
Messi’s goal came after a long pass from Álvaro Davídez, who was playing his first match for Argentina. The victory was a fitting send-off for the legend, who has been a cornerstone of Argentine football for decades. The match was attended by thousands of fans, many of whom had traveled from across the country to witness the historic moment.
Before the game, Messi spoke about the emotional weight of the occasion. He acknowledged the physical and emotional toll of recent tournaments, including the 2026 World Cup final against Spain. Despite the challenges, Messi expressed gratitude for his career and the support from fans and teammates. His performance on the pitch was a testament to his enduring skill and passion for the game.
Messi’s farewell was not just a personal milestone but also a moment of national pride. Argentina’s victory reinforced their status as one of the world’s top football nations. The match will be remembered as a celebration of a career that changed the sport and inspired generations of players.
