Lionel Messi Ends Argentina Career With Goal in Final Match

Lionel Messi played his 208th and final match for Argentina on Tuesday, scoring a goal and assisting two others in a 3-0 friendly win over Benin in Buenos Aires. The 39-year-old captain had previously confirmed his intention to step away from international football following the conclusion of the recent World Cup cycle.

The victory at a full El Monumental stadium brings an end to Messi’s 208-cap career with the national side, during which he scored a national record 126 goals.

Match Details and Farewell Tributes

During Tuesday’s game, Messi set up goals for defender Nicolas Otamendi—who was also making his final appearance for Argentina—and young midfielder Nico Paz. Paz is widely expected to take over the team’s number 10 shirt.

Messi capped the performance by scoring a penalty in the 71st minute. Following the final whistle, a drone display above the stadium projected the message “Gracias, Leo!” alongside an outline of Messi’s face.

Addressing the crowd after the game, Messi expressed his feelings about concluding his time with the team. “It was a source of great pride for me to wear this jersey,” he told supporters, adding that “not coming back anymore will be deeply painful.”

Timing of the Decision

Messi formally announced his upcoming retirement from international competition on August 31. The decision came roughly a month after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the World Cup final held in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

In a statement written two days after that defeat, Messi noted that while the decision was difficult, he felt “it’s the right time” to step aside, adding that he had “always given everything” while representing his country.

Continued Club Career

Messi’s departure from international football does not mark the end of his professional playing career. He remains under contract with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami, where his current agreement runs through 2028.

Background

Messi’s international career included significant highs and periods of disappointment. After experiencing losses in the 2014 World Cup final against Germany and consecutive Copa America finals against Chile in 2015 and 2016, Messi briefly announced an international retirement in 2016 before reversing his choice.

He subsequently captained Argentina to victory in the 2021 Copa America, ending a 28-year trophy drought for the senior national team. A year later, he led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar, where they defeated France on penalties following a 3-3 draw in the final.