A Tearful Night in Buenos Aires
Lionel Messi played his final match for Argentina on Tuesday. The 39-year-old brought an end to his 21-year international career in front of 85,000 fans at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. Argentina beat Benin 3-0 in what was called “The Last Tango”. Messi scored a penalty in the 71st minute and provided two assists. It was his 126th goal for his country. He also earned his 208th cap, extending his own record.
Emotions Ran High Before Kickoff
Messi was visibly emotional before the match even began. He wiped away tears as the team bus made its way through crowds of well-wishers on the way to the stadium. He walked onto the field with his three children. His wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and his mother, Celia Cuccittini, watched from a VIP box.
A giant Argentina jersey with the word “Gracias” above his number 10 was laid out on the pitch. The crowd roared when they saw it. Messi teared up again during the national anthem. It was sung by Fabio Santana, a veteran of the Falklands War. A banner reading “The Malvinas are Argentine” was held up, the same one players displayed after beating England in the World Cup semi-final.
The Match Paused in the 10th Minute
The game was stopped in the 10th minute for a minute-long standing ovation. This was a tribute to Messi’s famous shirt number. He then went on to assist Nicolás Otamendi for the opening goal. Nico Paz also scored. Messi capped the night with a penalty in the 71st minute. After the final whistle, a drone show lit up the sky. It showed Messi’s image and thanked him for his career.
A Career Full of Triumphs and Heartbreak
Messi’s farewell comes two and a half months after Argentina lost the 2026 World Cup final to Spain in New Jersey. Messi left that game in tears after a 1-0 defeat. He wrote at the time that he had given everything and had nothing left to give. He also said there are great young players coming up who deserve their chance. During his time with Argentina, Lionel Messi won the 2022 World Cup. He also won the Copa America in 2021 and 2024. Argentina were runners-up in the 2014 and 2026 World Cups. Messi is widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time. He won eight Ballon d’Or awards.
Honorary Doctorate and Tributes
Before the match, the University of Buenos Aires awarded Messi an honorary doctorate. The ceremony was held at the Argentine Football Association headquarters. Messi joked that he could now say he is an honorary doctor. Outside the headquarters, fans unfurled a huge Argentine flag with his image and the words “The joy of my life.” Neymar, Messi’s former Barcelona teammate, paid tribute on social media. He said the whole world thanks Messi for what he did for football. He added that Messi made him love football even more.
What Comes Next for Messi?
Lionel Messi remains under contract with Inter Miami until 2028. However, after the death of his father, Jorge, two months ago, he said he may retire sooner than expected. His international career is now over. Argentina will have to find a way to replace him. That is an impossible task, but Messi has earned the right to rest. Fans in Buenos Aires said he gave everything and deserves to enjoy himself now. And now, he has said goodbye on his own terms, in front of his own people, with tears and cheers and a final goal. It was a fitting end to a legendary international career.
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