Lionel Messi ends Argentina farewell with goal in 3-0 win over Benin

Lionel Messi scored in his final appearance for Argentina as the world champions beat Benin 3-0 at a packed Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.

The Argentina captain was honoured throughout an emotional farewell, which featured live music, tributes, lights, drones and a large artistic production before, during and after the match.

The game was goalless at half-time, but Nicolas Otamendi broke Benin’s resistance after the interval to put Lionel Scaloni’s side ahead. Nicolas Paz then doubled the lead before Messi completed the scoring in the closing stages, providing the moment the home supporters had been waiting for.

After the final whistle, a visibly emotional Messi addressed the crowd and reflected on his career with the national team. He thanked the supporters, remembered the most difficult periods, praised his team-mates and called on future generations to continue supporting and defending Argentina.

“It’s very difficult to say anything, there are so many emotions. The first thing I think about is my dad. All I can do is express my gratitude. Playing for the Argentine national team is the best thing that can happen to you. It was the best thing that ever happened to me.

“I experienced one of the best moments of my career here, when we returned to play after winning the championship. It was the most wonderful thing that ever happened to me,” he said, recalling the celebrations at the Monumental Stadium after Argentina’s Qatar 2022 triumph.

Messi also spoke about the support he had received across the country.

“I was lucky enough to travel the country, I was everywhere, and you all always filled the stadium and were with us everywhere. I will always be grateful for that.”

He added: “I’m saying goodbye to the National Team, I’m going to miss you all, I’m going to miss it, but now it’s my turn to be on that side.”

The farewell programme began before kick-off with a performance by Un Poco de Ruido (UPDR), featuring Sebastian Mendoza and Roman, el Original. Santi Cairo, Q’ Lokura and Damas Gratis then performed in front of the full stadium.

The Argentine National Anthem was sung by Fabio Santana, a veteran of the Falklands War.

Celebrations continued after Argentina’s victory, with a specially prepared show involving drones, banners, pyrotechnics, lights and other technical effects. The display transformed the Monumental Stadium for the second part of the evening.

Soledad Pastorutti provided the musical finale before Ulises Bueno performed his show, “Trampa”. The night ended with Messi’s own message to the supporters, completing an emotional farewell for the Argentina captain and those who had gathered to see him play for the national team for the final time.