The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner dominated the world stage for two decades, scoring 126 goals and winning a World Cup, two Copa America titles, one Finalissima, and an Olympic gold. Lionel Messi ‘s retirement from the Argentina team left a big void in international football.
The Argentinian Football Association organised a farewell match for a player widely regarded as the greatest of all time. In his final appearance for Argentina , the 39-year-old scored his 126th international goal before 85,000 supporters as Argentina secured a 3-0 victory over Benin. He also provided two assists, contributing to every goal in the match.Messi announced his retirement from international football weeks after the 2026 World Cup final, stating that his father’s demise made the decision firm.
It’s not just Argentina that thanks you, the world thanks you for everything you did for football. Thank you for making me love football even more, it was an honor to have played against you and even more so to make history by your side. THANKS Leo Messi,” Neymar wrote on social media. “What a pleasure and what joy to have been part of your story from the very first day, brother! You made us smile and enjoy football so much!!! Your name is etched in the history of your country, of the whole world… Only we know the joy we felt when we fulfilled our childhood dream, representing our entire nation and becoming world champions!!!! You gave everything for your national team and for your country… I understand you perfectly and I know that everything related to family makes us rethink things… Enjoy life, brother.
“Who loves football has enjoyed you throughout these years… Today is your last game in the shirt of your national team, of your country, and I hope you savor every second, that all the tributes today make you happy. I wish you the very best, today and always,” Ronaldinho wrote.
