Lionel Messi brought his 21-year international career to a close on Tuesday, making his final appearance for Argentina in a farewell friendly against Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. Argentina won 3-0, with the captain scoring once and providing two assists in front of more than 85,000 fans.
The 39-year-old signed off with his 126th international goal and handed over the captain's armband for good, marking the end of a landmark chapter in Argentine football.
Messi's final Argentina appearance
Messi played a decisive role in the victory, contributing to all three goals with one goal and two assists. His final international goal brought his tally for Argentina to 126.
The farewell match at the Estadio Monumental gave supporters a chance to see the captain in an Argentina shirt for the final time after 21 years representing his country.
End of a 21-year international career
Widely regarded as one of the greatest football players in history, Messi leaves Argentina with a record that includes 126 international goals. He also relinquished the captaincy as he brought his international career to an end.
