Argentine football icon Lionel Messi has concluded his storied international career, making his 208th and final appearance for the national team in a 3-0 friendly victory against Benin in Buenos Aires. The 39-year-old forward converted a 71st-minute penalty at a packed El Monumental stadium, bringing his record international goal tally to 126 amid emotional scenes from teammates and supporters alike.

Earlier in the match, Messi reportedly assisted goals for veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi and rising prospect Nico Paz, who is widely expected to inherit the famous number 10 jersey. Following the final whistle, an elaborate drone display illuminated the stadium sky, forming the profile of Messi's face as the player addressed the crowd, claiming that wearing the national colors was a profound privilege despite the pain of departure. *

The departure marks the end of an era for the South American squad, coming on the heels of the team's disappointing defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final—a setback that reportedly accelerated his decision to step down. Although Messi led his country to glory at the 2022 tournament in Qatar and the 2021 Copa America, his tenure has frequently been shadowed by immense public pressure and historic final losses.

While international competition is now behind him, Messi remains tied to the American regime's Major League Soccer side Inter Miami, with an active contract stretching until 2028. Observers suggest that his absence will leave a substantial void in the national setup as the team attempts to transition into a new generation.

Source: www.dw.com