Messi scores in Argentina farewell as Benin beaten 3-0

Lionel Messi marked his final appearance for Argentina with a goal and two assists as the world champions defeated Benin 3-0 in a friendly in Buenos Aires.

The match was also the last for Nicolas Otamendi with the Albiceleste, and the defender opened the scoring shortly after half-time. Nico Paz added a second before Messi completed the victory from the penalty spot.

Benin, managed by Gernot Rohr, held Argentina for much of the first half and offered a disciplined performance before eventually being overcome by the world champions.

Messi’s delivery from a corner created the opening goal in the 48th minute. Otamendi met the cross and headed Argentina in front, giving the defender a significant moment in his final match for the national team.

Argentina doubled their advantage in the 61st minute. Messi supplied the assist for Nico Paz, who controlled the opportunity before placing his shot beyond the Benin defence.

Ten minutes later, Messi was involved again, this time from 12 yards. He converted a penalty awarded after Agustin Giay was fouled, adding a symbolic goal to his final appearance in Argentina colours.

The result did not reflect Benin’s contribution, particularly before the interval. Goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou made a series of saves to keep the Guepards in contention, while Junior Olaitan and Aiyegun Tosin both created opportunities to score.

Benin continued to look for a response after conceding, although Argentina remained the stronger side. Saturnin Allagbe came on in the 76th minute and was also called upon to prevent the deficit from becoming greater.

The defeat came after Benin had drawn 1-1 with Burkina Faso and beaten Mauritania 2-1. Despite the loss, the first-half display provided positive signs for Rohr’s side.

For Argentina, the evening at the Monumental was defined by Messi’s farewell. He finished the match with one goal and two assists, according to the match summary, as supporters gave their captain an emotional send-off.