Lionel Messi Prepares for His Final Match for Argentina
- On Tuesday, October 6, 2026, Lionel Messi concluded his 21-year international career as Argentina defeated Benin 3-0 in a friendly at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires before 85,000 spectators.
- Messi announced his international retirement in August, ending a two-decade tenure that included the 2022 World Cup title and two Copa América trophies with the Albiceleste.
- In his 208th appearance, Messi scored a 71st-minute penalty and provided two assists, while the sold-out crowd paused in the 10th minute to honor the captain with a lengthy tribute.
- Defender Cristian Romero is set to inherit the captain's armband as Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni plans to fill the leadership void collectively following Messi's retirement and other senior departures.
- Scaloni negotiates a contract extension through the next World Cup as emerging midfielder Nico Paz is expected to drive Argentina's evolution, positioning the squad to remain globally competitive beyond Messi's era.
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With his last international match the superstar, who still plays at the club level at Inter Miami, stepped away from the big football stage. Under deafening cheer and with fireworks Lionel Messi was adopted by the fans.
Fireworks, light show, one final goal: Lionel Messi said goodbye in Buenos Aires – and found words that go under his skin.
The legendary Lionel Messi played his last international match on Wednesday night as Argentina earned a convincing victory over Benin in a friendly.
ledauphine.com
The evening of Tuesday in Buenos Aires had a world-wide match air, with all over the street on the shoulders, bloated jerseys of the N°10, flags, a crowd on the route of the selection bus, monuments illuminated in the sky and white, a fan zone to the university city, with giant screen.
With a goal and two assists, Lionel Messi bid farewell to Argentina as an international in a friendly against Benin (3-0). He continues playing football...
21 years, 208 games, one World Championship title, two Copa America victories.
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