Messi Bows Out With Goal, Two Assists as Argentina Beat Benin 3-0

Lionel Messi brought his remarkable international career to an emotional close on Tuesday, scoring a goal and providing two assists as Argentina defeated Benin 3-0 in a friendly at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.

Playing before more than 85,000 supporters, Messi delivered a fitting final performance in his 208th appearance for Argentina. The 39-year-old ended his international career as the country’s most-capped player and leading scorer with 126 goals.

After a goalless first half, Argentina took the lead in the 48th minute. Messi delivered the corner that allowed veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi to open the scoring.

Messi then turned provider again in the 61st minute, setting up Nicolás Paz, who finished to double Argentina’s advantage.

Ten minutes later, Messi completed the scoring from the penalty spot, sending the Monumental into celebration and bringing his international goals tally to 126.

The victory marked the end of a 21-year international career that saw Messi lead Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, two Copa América titles and the 2022 Finalissima.

The Argentina captain announced his decision to end his international career following the 2026 World Cup. His final appearance had been widely anticipated as a major farewell for one of the greatest players in football history.

The occasion was marked by emotional scenes before, during and after the match. The game was briefly stopped in the 10th minute, corresponding with Messi’s famous shirt number, for a standing ovation from the crowd.

At the final whistle, Messi was surrounded by teammates and opponents before thanking the supporters. He said representing Argentina for more than two decades had been an enormous source of pride and admitted that leaving the national team would be painful.

Argentina’s Football Association described the match as Messi’s final appearance for the national team before the home crowd, while FIFA had previously confirmed the Benin friendly as his farewell international appearance.

Messi now leaves the Argentina national team with 208 appearances, 126 goals and 70 assists, closing one of the most decorated international careers in football history.