Lionel Messi brought the curtain down on his extraordinary 21-year international career with Argentina on Tuesday, delivering a masterclass in blue and white. In a 3-0 friendly win over Benin, Messi scored one goal and set up two others, capping off an emotional farewell in front of more than 85,000 fans at a packed Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. The event was less about football and more a national celebration of Messi's service to the national team.
The city of Buenos Aires was decked out in Argentina's sky blue and white colours, with landmarks glowing and fireworks lighting up the skies above the stadium. Fans poured their hearts into a rendition of Argentina's national anthem, creating an electric atmosphere. Messi's family watched proudly from the stands alongside some of Argentina's World Cup winners of 1978, 1986, and 2022. The occasion was a testament to Messi's enduring impact on the team.
In an emotional post-match interview, Messi struggled to contain his emotions, saying "It's hard to talk" and referencing the recent death of his father. He expressed his pride in wearing the Argentina shirt for over 20 years, stating it was a "huge source of pride" for him. Messi also acknowledged that not coming to play for Argentina anymore would "hurt a lot," revealing his deep affection for the team.
The farewell ceremony began hours before the match, with a massive No. 10 shirt emblazoned with "Gracias" unfurled at the National Flag Memorial in Rosario, Messi's hometown. As the team bus travelled from the training centre, Messi wiped away tears as thousands lined the route. Benin's captain handed Messi a gift and letter during the pre-match handshake, highlighting the respect and admiration from opponents.
The match itself was a fitting tribute to Messi's career, with Argentina dominating play. Messi supplied the assist for Nicolas Otamendi to tap home Argentina's opener, marking a special moment for Otamendi, who was also ending his international career. Messi then set up Nico Paz to score the second goal, providing a glimpse into Argentina's future.
Messi capped off his career with a fairytale ending, converting a penalty for 3-0, his 126th international goal. The crowd erupted in "Messi, Messi" chants, and at the final whistle, teammates, opponents, and the referee gathered around Messi for embraces. A drone show lit up the sky, and Argentine singer Soledad Pastorutti performed a tribute to Messi and his journey with the national team.
Messi leaves Argentina as the country's most-capped player (208) and record scorer, having transformed years of frustration on the international stage into a story of World Cup and Copa America triumphs. The occasion was a celebration of his achievements and a chance for Argentina to say "Thank You" to a player who delivered on their expectations.
Key points
- Messi ended his 21-year international career with a 3-0 win over Benin, scoring one goal and setting up two others.
- The event was a national celebration of Messi's service to Argentina, with landmarks and fans showing their appreciation.
- Messi leaves as Argentina's most-capped player (208) and record scorer with 126 goals.
