Lionel Messi Bids Farewell to Argentina After Historic International Career

Lionel Messi has officially brought his remarkable international career with Argentina to an end, closing one of the most decorated chapters in football history. The 39-year-old made his final appearance for the national team on Tuesday, October 6, scoring and providing two assists as Argentina defeated Benin 3-0 in a farewell friendly at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.

Messi had announced his retirement from international football on 31 August, following Argentina’s 1-0 defeat by Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. His decision ended a 21-year journey with the national team that began with his senior debut in 2005.

During his international career, Messi led Argentina to the 2021 and 2024 Copa América titles, the 2022 Finalissima and, most notably, the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. He leaves as Argentina’s record appearance-maker and leading scorer, finishing with 208 caps and 126 goals.

The emotional farewell at the Monumental saw thousands of Argentine supporters celebrate a player who transformed his country’s fortunes and finally delivered the World Cup after years of disappointment. Messi is expected to continue his club career with Inter Miami, but his era in the famous Argentina shirt has now come to an end.