Messi Bows Out In Style! Argentine Legend Scores And Assists Twice In Emotional Farewell

Lionel Messi brought his 21-year international career with Argentina to an emotional close on October 7, scoring one goal and providing two assists as the world champions defeated Benin 3-0 at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.

The 39-year-old made his 208th and final appearance for Argentina in the friendly, marking the end of an international journey that began more than two decades ago.

Messi played a decisive role in all three goals. He delivered the corner from which Nicolás Otamendi headed Argentina into the lead in the 48th minute before setting up Nico Paz for the second goal in the 61st minute.

The Inter Miami forward completed his memorable farewell in the 71st minute when he converted a penalty to make it 3-0.

According to Bush Radio Academy, more than 85,000 spectators were present at the Monumental to witness Messi’s final appearance for Argentina.

Inter Miami noted that the veteran forward was directly involved in every goal scored by Argentina, finishing his international career with 126 goals in 208 appearances.

Messi is Argentina’s most-capped player and all-time leading goalscorer. His international career also included winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup and two Copa América titles.

Speaking after the match, Messi struggled to put his emotions into words as he reflected on his long association with the national team.

“It’s hard to talk,” he said, adding that there were “a lot of emotions” and many thoughts running through his mind.

The football icon described representing Argentina for more than 20 years as a tremendous source of pride and said playing for the national team was the most beautiful experience a footballer could have.

The farewell also brought Messi face-to-face with former Nigeria head coach Gernot Rohr, who was in charge of Benin for the match. Rohr had previously faced Messi as Nigeria coach at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, where Argentina defeated the Super Eagles 2-1 in the group stage.

Messi leaves international football as a two-time Copa América winner and World Cup champion. He also became the first Argentine player to participate in six different World Cup editions and featured in three World Cup finals.