Buenos Aires, Argentina — Lionel Messi brought his 21-year international career to an emotional close with a goal and two assists as Argentina defeated Benin 3-0 at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.

The 39-year-old played the full match in front of more than 85,000 fans, setting up Argentina’s opening two goals before scoring from the penalty spot in the second half.

Messi first provided for Nicolás Otamendi before creating Argentina’s second for Nico Paz. He then converted a penalty in the 71st minute to score the final goal of his international career.

The strike took Messi’s Argentina tally to 126 goals in 208 appearances, extending his national records in both categories.

Argentina fans pay tribute to Messi’s No. 10

The match was stopped in the 10th minute as supporters inside the Monumental rose for a standing ovation in honor of Messi and the No. 10 shirt he made synonymous with his Argentina career.

Messi was visibly emotional during the farewell, with teammates, supporters and members of Benin’s squad joining the tributes.

A drone show celebrating the Argentine captain followed the final whistle.

Messi ends 21-year Argentina career

Messi leaves international football after more than two decades representing Argentina.

Among the defining achievements of his international career were Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024 and Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph.

He also captained Argentina to the 2026 World Cup final, where they were beaten 1-0 by Spain.

Messi finishes his international career with 126 goals from 208 appearances, closing one of the longest and most decorated chapters in modern international football.

Messi expected to continue with Inter Miami

While his Argentina career has ended, Messi is expected to continue playing club football with Inter Miami.

His farewell at the Monumental brought an emotional end to a national team career spanning 21 years and more than 200 appearances.