Lionel Messi played his final game for Argentina as the World Cup champions defeated Benin 3–0 in an emotional farewell at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.
More than 85,000 fans packed the stadium to celebrate the legendary No. 10. Messi was visibly emotional during the national anthem, while his three children joined him on the pitch before kick-off.
The 10th minute brought another special moment as the entire stadium stopped to applaud Messi, with fans chanting his name.
Messi then put the perfect finish on his farewell night. He provided assists for Nicolás Otamendi and Nico Paz before scoring Argentina’s third goal from the penalty spot — his 126th international goal.
After the final whistle, Messi thanked the supporters and reflected on what playing for Argentina has meant to him.
“Playing for Argentina is the most beautiful thing that can happen to you.”
After more than two decades, Messi’s Argentina story has come to an emotional end.
