Lionel Messi signs off for Argentina with goal and two assists against Benin

Lionel Messi marked his final appearance in international football with a goal and two assists as Argentina beat Benin 3-0 in Buenos Aires.

The 39-year-old, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, scored his 126th international goal in his record-extending 208th appearance for Argentina.

The occasion was marked by emotional scenes at the Monumental Stadium, where large crowds gathered before kick-off to see the Argentina team bus arrive.

Messi walked out for the national anthems alongside his three children, while a giant Argentina shirt carrying the message “Gracias” (Thank You) was displayed inside the stadium.

Benin initially threatened to spoil the celebration. The visitors defended resolutely and held Argentina to a goalless first half despite the hosts enjoying the build-up of an evening focused heavily on Messi’s farewell.

Argentina finally broke through three minutes after the interval. Messi delivered a corner into the penalty area and Nicolas Otamendi rose to score the opening goal.

Shortly after the hour mark, Messi turned provider again. He found Nico Paz, who produced a fine left-footed finish, curling the ball beyond Benin goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou to make it 2-0.

The final highlight came with 20 minutes remaining. Agustin Giay was fouled by Yamirou Ouorou, giving Argentina a penalty, and Messi stepped up to send the spot-kick past Dandjinou.

It brought the curtain down on a career in which Messi has won every major honour available in international football.

As captain, he led Argentina to the FIFA World Cup title in Qatar in 2022 and also helped them win the Copa America in 2021 and 2024. He was part of the Argentina team that claimed the gold medal at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.

Messi remains under contract with MLS side Inter Miami until 2028. However, after the death of his father, Jorge, two months ago, he said he may retire from football altogether sooner than he had expected.