New Delhi: Lionel Messi brought his remarkable 21 year international career to an emotional close as Argentina defeated Benin 3-0 in Buenos Aires on Tuesday.
Playing before a packed Monumental Stadium, the 39 year old Messi scored his 126th international goal and assisted Nicolas Otamendi for the opening goal. Nico Paz also found the net as Argentina completed a comfortable victory in a night dedicated to their legendary captain.
The result, however, was secondary to Messi’s farewell. Around 85,000 supporters gathered to celebrate his final appearance for Argentina, with the occasion billed as his “Last Tango”.
Messi was visibly emotional even before kick off. He wiped away tears as the Argentina team bus travelled through crowds of supporters before arriving at the stadium. He later walked onto the pitch with his three children, while his wife Antonela Roccuzzo and mother Celia Cuccittini watched from the stands.
A giant Argentina jersey carrying Messi’s iconic No. 10 and the word “Gracias” was displayed on the field before the match. The game was also briefly stopped in the 10th minute, prompting a huge ovation from the crowd in honour of his famous shirt number.
Messi completed the farewell in fitting fashion, converting a penalty in the 71st minute to add another memorable moment to his international career.
After the final whistle, a drone show illuminated the Buenos Aires sky with images celebrating Messi’s extraordinary journey.
His Argentina career included the 2022 World Cup triumph, ending the country’s 36 year wait for the title, along with Copa America victories in 2021 and 2024. He also finished as a World Cup runner up in 2014 and 2026.
Messi leaves international football as one of the most decorated players in Argentina’s history, having given the national team more than two decades of unforgettable moments.
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