Lionel Messi bids emotional farewell to Argentina after final match
Lionel MessiLionel Messi has played his final match for Argentina, bringing an emotional end to his historic 21-year international career in Buenos Aires. The 39-year-old forward starred with a goal and two assists as his side secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Benin.
It was a night of pure celebration at a packed Estadio Monumental, where 85,000 fans gathered for an event billed as “the last tango”. The match itself paused in the tenth minute to allow the entire stadium to applaud their legendary captain.
A perfect script in Buenos Aires
Messi ensured the evening had a fitting finale by converting a 71st-minute penalty, firing his spot-kick into the roof of the net. Before his goal, the Inter Miami star had already set up veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi for the opener and assisted youngster Nico Paz for the second.
The match served as a final farewell following Messi’s decision to retire from international football after this summer’s World Cup. It was a highly emotional night for the playmaker, who was seen crying on the team bus before arriving at the stadium.
Speaking to the crowd at the Estadio Monumental, Messi said:
“I just want to tell you that I love you and I’ll miss you.”
An emotional farewell to the fans
The legendary playmaker finishes his international career with 208 caps and 126 goals, both of which are national records. His achievements include winning the World Cup in 2022 alongside two Copa America titles.
Addressing the supporters after the final whistle, Messi said:
“Now, inevitably, I face the saddest day of my career: saying goodbye to the national team.”
The night was also marked by personal reflection for Messi, whose father, Jorge, passed away recently at the age of 68. The forward admitted his father was at the forefront of his thoughts during the emotional post-match celebrations.
Scaloni pays tribute to his captain
The departure of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner leaves a massive void in the national team setup. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni was visibly moved during the national anthem and spoke of the irreplaceable presence his captain brought to the squad.
Reflecting on his time managing the superstar, Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni said:
“We can put together a great squad with the new guys coming up, but I’ve never seen that aura in anyone else in my life.”
Tributes also poured in from across the footballing world, including from those who played alongside the legendary forward during his club career.
Writing on social media, his former Barcelona teammate Neymar said:
“It’s not just Argentina that thanks you, the world thanks you for everything you did for football.”
What lies ahead for Messi
While his international journey has concluded, Messi will continue playing club football in the United States. He remains under contract with Major League Soccer outfit Inter Miami until 2028.
However, the forward has previously hinted that his overall retirement from the sport could happen sooner than expected following his recent family loss. For now, the football world pauses to celebrate the end of an era for one of its greatest icons.
