Lionel Messi concluded his 21-year international career with Argentina on October 6, marking his final appearance in a 3-0 victory over Benin at Buenos Aires' Monumental Stadium. The 39-year-old scored a goal and provided two assists in his record-extending 208th match for the national team, receiving a standing ovation and widespread tributes from fans, teammates, and opponents alike.

The occasion was emotionally charged, with the atmosphere punctuated by moments of reflection and celebration. The match was paused in the 10th minute to honor Messi’s iconic No. 10 shirt, during which the entire stadium—including the Benin players—rose to pay tribute. Outside the stadium, large replicas of Messi’s jersey were displayed in his hometown of Rosario and the capital, Buenos Aires, symbolizing his enduring legacy.

Messi, who entered the pitch alongside his three children and was supported in the stands by his wife Antonela Roccuzzo and mother Celia Cuccittini, addressed the crowd after the match, describing his retirement as the “saddest day of my career.” He expressed pride in having represented Argentina for over two decades and spoke candidly about the difficulty of stepping away from the national team. “Not coming any more is going to be deeply painful,” he said. “I would like to play for the rest of my life, because playing for the Argentina national team is the most beautiful thing that can happen to you.”

The Argentine captain also referenced the emotional toll of recent events, including the 2026 World Cup campaign and the loss of his father, Jorge, earlier this year. He acknowledged that the exertions of the last tournament and his personal circumstances contributed to his decision to retire, adding that he felt it was the right moment to step aside and allow the next generation of players to emerge. His final assist was passed to Nico Paz, one of football’s promising young talents, symbolizing the transition to Argentina’s future squad.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni paid tribute to Messi’s unparalleled skill and impact on the game, calling him “unique” and stating he had never witnessed such a set of abilities in any other player. Scaloni acknowledged the challenge ahead without Messi’s presence on the field but expressed optimism about the team’s prospects.

The match itself saw Messi assist veteran Nicolás Otamendi’s opening goal with a precise corner kick, followed by a goal from Paz and Messi’s penalty strike in the 71st minute, bringing his international goal tally to 126. The game served as a fitting send-off, combining a convincing win with heartfelt farewells.

After the final whistle, a drone light show projected Messi’s image above the stadium as fans and players celebrated his career. The farewell garnered tributes from around the football world, including Neymar, who praised Messi for his influence on the sport globally.

While Messi’s time with Argentina has ended, he remains an active player at club level with Inter Miami, a contract that runs until 2028. However, following his father’s death, Messi has suggested he may retire from professional football sooner than expected.

Throughout his international career, Messi led Argentina to one World Cup title in 2022, finished runner-up twice (in 2014 and 2026), and helped secure Copa América trophies in 2021 and 2024. His legacy as one of football’s greatest players is cemented not only in trophies but also in the profound emotional connection he cultivated with fans worldwide.