Sports reporter
London: Lionel Messi bids an emotional farewell to Argentina after an extraordinary international career Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the defining footballers of his generation, has brought his remarkable international career with Argentina to an emotional close.
The 39-year-old captain made his final appearance for Argentina on Tuesday, scoring and providing two assists as Argentina defeated Benin 3–0 at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. FIFA confirmed that it was Messi’s final match for the national side. Messi leaves international football as Argentina’s record appearance maker and leading goalscorer. He finished with 208 caps and 126 goals, having represented his country for more than two decades. His greatest achievement came in Qatar in 2022, when he finally lifted the World Cup after Argentina defeated France in the final. He also led the country to Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024.
The farewell in Buenos Aires was filled with emotion. Surrounded by his three sons, Messi struggled to contain his feelings during the tributes and later addressed the crowd, reflecting on what representing Argentina had meant to him. Although his international journey is over, Messi has not retired from football altogether. He continues his club career with Inter Miami, meaning supporters may still have the opportunity to watch the Argentine maestro on the pitch.
For Argentina, however, an extraordinary chapter has closed. For millions of football fans around the world, the farewell marks the end of an era defined by extraordinary skill, unforgettable goals and a player who turned the number 10 shirt into a symbol of footballing excellence.
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