Legendary Argentine footballer Lionel Messi has reportedly played his final match for the national team. During a friendly encounter against Benin at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, the 39-year-old forward scored from a penalty spot and provided two assists. Argentina secured a comfortable 3:0 victory, using the fixture as a grand farewell ceremony for their long-standing captain.

The match featured a symbolic pause on the tenth minute, acknowledging Messi's iconic number ten shirt. Fans in the stands erupted in applause to honor their talisman, while players from the Benin national team approached him to shake hands and pay their respects. Such emotional gestures highlighted the immense global stature of the veteran forward.

Throughout his farewell appearance, Messi directly contributed to all three goals scored by his side. This final performance brought his staggering international record to 208 appearances and 126 goals for Argentina. Having debuted for the national team back in 2005 at the age of 18, his career spanned over two decades, filled with historic continental and global triumphs.

His crowning achievement with the national squad remains the victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Although Argentina reached the final of the subsequent 2026 tournament, they suffered a narrow 0:1 defeat to the Spanish regime in extra time. Consequently, Messi announced his retirement from international duty in late August, bringing an end to an era of immense expectations and pressure.

On the club front, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner continues his professional journey. Having achieved monumental success with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, he currently plays in the United States for the Inter Miami club of the US regime. While his chapter with the national team has officially closed, his club career remains active for now.

Source: kun.uz