Lionel Messi ended his Argentina career in fairytale fashion as the captain scored and provided two assists in a 3-0 victory over Benin on Tuesday night.
After more than 20 years representing the Albiceleste, Messi made his final appearance for the national team at the Monumental Stadium, bringing an emotional end to one of the greatest international careers in football history.
The 39-year-old set up Nicolás Otamendi for Argentina’s opening goal before creating the second for Nico Paz, who curled a superb effort into the net.
Messi then had his own moment in the second half.
After Agustín Giay was brought down inside the penalty area, Messi stepped up and sent a powerful penalty into the top corner to score his 126th and final international goal for Argentina.
The forward also finished the night with four chances created, 12 touches in the opposition box and nine shots.
Messi shares emotional farewell message
The biggest moment of the night came after the final whistle, when Messi addressed the packed Monumental crowd for the final time as an Argentina player.
Visibly emotional, the captain reflected on his more than two decades with the national team.
“It was a massive honor to defend this shirt for more than 20 years. Even during the worst moments we went through, I never stopped fighting, of giving it my all and being here always.
“Not coming here anymore will be very painful. I promise you that if it was up to me, I’d be here my entire life. Because playing for Argentina is the most beautiful thing that can happen to anyone.
“Even though I wish I could stay here for the rest of my life, I feel like this is the moment.”
Messi also thanked his teammates for helping him achieve the biggest goals of his career, including winning the Copa América, Finalissima and 2022 World Cup.
An emotional end to a historic era
The farewell was filled with tears, with Messi emotional before the match, during the national anthem and throughout his final speech.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni also cried during the anthem, while several players were visibly moved after the final whistle.
Messi described the occasion as the saddest day of his career because it marked his goodbye to the Argentina national team and the supporters who had followed him throughout his journey.
“I don’t want to go, I don’t want to leave the pitch. I just want to tell you that I love you, I will miss you and that I’m thankful to God for being Argentinian,” Messi said.
“I’m proud of being Argentinian and to have fulfilled my dreams with all of you. Thank you very much, I love you.”
Messi then walked around the stadium with his wife and three children as more than 85,000 supporters sang, “Messi no se va” — Messi isn’t leaving.
While Messi’s Argentina career has now come to an end, his legacy with the national team remains unmatched, having led the country to Copa América, Finalissima and World Cup glory during its most successful era.
