Stories
Lionel Messi Bids Emotional Farewell to International Football With Win Over Benin
- •Lionel Messi ended his illustrious 21-year international career by helping Argentina secure a 3-0 victory over Benin at Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.
- •The 39-year-old superstar scored his 126th international goal from a 71st-minute penalty and provided an assist for Nicolas Otamendi, earning his record 208th cap.
- •A crowd of 85,000 fans, along with Messi's family and teammates, paid tribute to the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner during an event dubbed The Last Tango.
- •Play was paused in the 10th minute for a standing ovation, and a drone show lit up the Buenos Aires sky to celebrate his legendary career.
- •Messi leaves international football as a World Cup champion from 2022, a two-time Copa America winner, and widely regarded as the greatest footballer in history.
Key Questions Answered
In his final international appearance, 39-year-old Lionel Messi scored his 126th goal from a penalty and helped Argentina secure a 3-0 victory against Benin at Monumental Stadium. Playing his record 208th cap, he also set up Nicolas Otamendi for the opening goal before receiving a minute-long standing ovation in the 10th minute of the match.
Prior to his farewell match, the University of Buenos Aires presented Lionel Messi with an honorary doctorate at the Argentine Football Association headquarters. Messi joked about the distinction, stating he was proud to now be called an honorary doctor despite previously wishing he had dedicated more time to his studies.
Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football following Argentina's 1-0 defeat to Spain in the World Cup final. He explained that he had given his absolute all for the national team and felt it was the right time to step aside so that great young players could have their chance.
