The Last Tango: Lionel Messi has retired International football, Argentina vs Benin was the last game of his historic 21 year old international career.

Lionel Messi called his retirement from international football the "saddest day of my career" after playing his final game for Argentina on Tuesday, October 6, 2026.

News Source: https://www.theguardian.com/international

In his final game at the Estadio Monumental, the 39-year-old legend Lionel Messi gave a classic performance, assisting two goals and scoring a penalty in a 3-0 victory over Benin. A sobbing Messi thanked the 85,000 spectators after magnificent post-match drone show and fireworks tribute. With 208 games and 126 international goals, he is the ultimate legend as he departs Albiceleste.

Messi addressed the stadium's more than 80,000 fans, “It was a huge source of pride for me to defend this jersey for more than 20 years.” Further he added, “Even in the worst moments we went through and that I had, I never stopped fighting, never stopped being here, not coming anymore is going to be deeply painful. I swear I’d like to play for the rest of my life, because playing for the Argentina national team is the most beautiful thing that can happen to you.”

Messi wiped away emotions as hundreds of people lined the route as the team bus with his name left the training facility. Benin's captain was at a loss for words when he gave Messi a present and a letter at the pre-match handshake before the sides hit the field. Messi helped Nicolas Otamendi score Argentina's opening goal following a goalless first half. Otamendi was nearing the conclusion of his international career while playing with Messi for 17 years, including four World Cups. Nico Paz, one of the players thought to be a possible replacement for Argentina's No. 10 shirt, was subsequently set up by Messi to score the second goal. The audience chanted "Messi, Messi" once more as Messi scored his 126th goal for his country, 3-0, in a fairytale conclusion.

Messi's renowned influence on the sport is far from done, even though his epic chapter with Argentina is technically over. With 208 games, 126 goals, and an elusive 2022 FIFA World Cup victory that solidified his place as the greatest of all time, the maestro leaves behind an unparalleled international legacy. Messi will spend the rest of his professional playing career on the club stage, entertaining fans all over the world in the United States with Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer as the Albiceleste enters a new era without its legendary number 10.

FAQs:

Q: When did Lionel Messi officially play his final match for Argentina?

A: Messi played his last international game on Tuesday, October 6, 2026.

Q: Who did Argentina play in Messi's farewell game, and what was the score?

A: Argentina played an international friendly game against Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, winning 3-0.

Q: How did Messi perform in his final game?

A: The 39-year-old played the entire 90 minutes, gave two assists (for Nico Paz and Nicolás Otamendi), and scored Argentina's third goal with a penalty in the 71st minute.

Q: What are Messi's final career statistics for Argentina?

A: Messi finished his 21-year career with an unbeatable record of 208 games and 126 goals for his country.

Q: Is Messi retiring from club football entirely?

A: No. Messi will not be playing international matches, retiring from national team. He will keep playing club football professionally in the US with Inter Miami CF, his Major League Soccer team.