Lionel Messi turned his official farewell to Argentina into a gala performance, contributing a penalty and two assists in a 3-0 win over Benin at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, where the crowd offered a deafening final ovation to the genius who defined the footballing pulse of a nation for two decades.
In front of 85,000 fans, the superstar capped off an international career spanning 21 years, 126 goals, a 2022 World Cup victory, and two Copa América titles.
“It was a source of great pride to wear this jersey for over 20 years,” Messi told the crowd, speaking into a microphone from the center of the pitch. “I never stopped fighting, never stopped giving my all. I would love to keep coming back forever, because playing for the Argentine national team is the most beautiful thing that can happen to you.”
His teammates many of them overcome with emotion along with the coaching staff led by Lionel Scaloni and the fans, gave him a standing ovation.
“I'm going to miss you all. Now I'll be on your side, supporting the national team and the guys who come next,” Messi promised. “When we're united, we're stronger than anyone and can overcome anything. Tough times lie ahead, because what this group achieved won't be easy to repeat.”
