Lionel Messi bids a tearful farewell to Argentina after 3-0 win over Benin

Lionel Messi brought an end to his 21-year international career on Tuesday, making an emotional final appearance for Argentina in a 3-0 victory against Benin in Buenos Aires. Playing his 208th international match before 85,000 fans at the Monumental Stadium, the 39-year-old scored a 71st-minute penalty and provided an assist for Nicolás Otamendi, with Nico Paz also scoring.

The farewell match was paused during the 10th minute for a minute-long ovation honoring Messi's famous shirt number. The match concluded with a commemorative drone show following prior pre-match tributes, including an honorary doctorate from the University of Buenos Aires. Messi remains under contract with Inter Miami through 2028.