Lionel Messi scored from the penalty spot and provided two assists in his final appearance for Argentina on Tuesday, helping the Albiceleste secure a 3-0 victory over Benin at the Estadio Monumental.
The 39-year-old captain converted a 71st-minute spot-kick to make it 3-0, capping a memorable night that marked the end of a 21-year international career spanning 208 matches and 126 goals.
Nicolas Otamendi opened the scoring in the 48th minute, heading home a Messi corner. Substitute Nico Paz doubled the lead just past the hour mark with a curling left-footed strike, assisted by the departing star.
Messi, who announced his international retirement in August after Argentina finished runners-up at the 2026 World Cup, played the full 90 minutes. He tested Benin goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou several times and was involved in the build-up to all three goals.
The match was stopped in the 10th minute for a prolonged ovation from the more than 80,000 fans, who chanted the No. 10’s name. Messi was visibly emotional during the national anthem, tears filling his eyes as he stood with his three sons.
Former teammates including Angel Di Maria and Sergio Aguero were present, along with Messi’s family. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni also appeared moved throughout the evening.
Messi will now focus solely on his club career with Inter Miami, where he is expected to feature this weekend.
Benin, coached by Gernot Rohr, offered stubborn resistance in the first half but could not contain Argentina after the break.
