Lionel Messi retires from Argentina duty with goal and two assists in 3-0 win over Benin

Final match at El Monumental

Lionel Messi made his final appearance for the Argentina national team in a friendly against Benin at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires, leading the side to a 3-0 victory. The 39-year-old captain participated directly in all three scoring plays before a packed crowd. The opening goal came when Messi delivered a pass into the penalty area for veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi, who scored and was immediately substituted for Medina to receive an ovation in his own final international match. Messi then assisted midfielder Nico Paz, who entered as a substitute and converted a left-footed shot for the second goal. In the 70th minute, Messi drew a foul inside the penalty area and converted the resulting spot-kick to record his final international goal for manager Lionel Scaloni's team.

International career statistics and pitch farewell

The match concluded a 21-year career with Argentina's senior team, during which Messi earned 208 caps, scored 126 goals, and provided 67 assists. His international honours list includes one World Cup trophy, two Copa América titles, two other World Cup final appearances, and the Finalissima title. Following the match, Messi addressed supporters and teammates directly on the pitch. He thanked his late father and reflected on the physical demands of international competition, including Argentina's tournament contest against England, before describing his pride in playing for his country.

It was a great honour for me to defend this shirt for over 20 years. Even in the worst moments that we went through and faced, I never stopped fighting, giving my best and always being present.

Reflections and tribute from Cristiano Ronaldo

Hours after the match, Messi shared an extended statement on Instagram reflecting on his international retirement, acknowledging the support of his family, coaches, teammates, and club sides. He dedicated part of his message to the late Diego Maradona, noting Maradona's lasting impact on Argentine football and his spiritual presence during recent tournaments. Messi noted that stepping away from the national team was the correct decision, despite having mixed feelings after more than two decades representing the country. Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi's long-standing competitor in European club football, replied directly to the retirement post with a message of respect.

Leo, after so many years defending your country's colours you created a story that will last forever. You have all my respect for what you achieved with Argentina. A hug.

Domestic press reaction and future club ventures

Argentine newspapers La Nacion and Olé published extensive coverage of the retirement, noting that an entire generation of supporters had known the national side only with Messi in the lineup. While his international career has concluded, Messi remains under contract with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami through 2028. According to reporting from the BBC, an extension beyond 2028 remains possible if his physical condition allows. A return to Argentine club Newell's Old Boys is not part of his immediate plans, and Messi has ruled out transitioning into a coaching role. His post-retirement plans center on sports ownership, including becoming a shareholder in Inter Miami, owning Spanish side Cornellà, and acquiring Spanish second-division club Eldense, an acquisition pending approval from Spain's Higher Sports Council.