Lionel Messi Says Goodbye to Argentina in Win Over Benin
Lionel Messi has played his final match for Argentina, leading the team to a 3-0 victory over Benin in a farewell friendly at the Monumental stadium.
Quick facts
- Final score: Argentina 3-0 Benin.
- Messi recorded his 126th goal and 67th assist for the national team.
- The match took place at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires.
Why it matters
The retirement of Lionel Messi marks the end of an era for Argentine football. His influence on the sport has been significant, and his departure from the national team is a major cultural event. The wider context of his next professional steps remains a subject of ongoing speculation.
Lionel Messi played his final match for the Argentina national team on Tuesday, securing a 3-0 victory against Benin in a friendly held at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires. The 39-year-old forward concluded his international career in front of over 80,000 spectators, marking the end of a tenure that spanned 208 selections.
What happened during the match?
Messi maintained an active role throughout the full 90 minutes of the game. He scored his 126th international goal via a penalty in the 70th minute. Additionally, he provided two assists: the first for defender Nicolas Otamendi from a corner kick in the 48th minute, and the second for Nicolas Paz in the 60th minute. Otamendi, 38, also participated in his final match for the national team.
Why this is trending in Belgium
The match is trending in Belgium due to the global interest in Lionel Messi's career milestone. While the notes do not specify a unique local connection, the farewell of a globally recognized athlete frequently generates significant search interest across European countries.
What is confirmed and what is not
It is confirmed that Messi has completed his 208th and final appearance for Argentina with a total of 126 goals. Details regarding his future club career remain unconfirmed, with reports mentioning potential options in Florida or a return to Rosario, but no official decision has been announced.
Frequently asked questions
What was the final score of the Argentina vs. Benin match?
Argentina defeated Benin with a final score of 3-0. The match was held at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires as a farewell friendly for Lionel Messi and Nicolas Otamendi.
How many goals did Lionel Messi score in his final match?
Lionel Messi scored one goal during the match against Benin, which was a penalty kick in the 70th minute. This goal brought his total career tally for the Argentina national team to 126.
Why is this match significant?
This match was significant because it marked the final appearance of Lionel Messi for the Argentina national team. It also served as the farewell game for defender Nicolas Otamendi.
Who else retired from the Argentina team alongside Messi?
Defender Nicolas Otamendi, age 38, also played his final match for the Argentina national team, known as the Albiceleste, during this friendly against Benin.
Where did the match take place?
The match was hosted at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires, Argentina. It was attended by over 80,000 spectators who gathered to witness the final international minutes of the team's captain.
What is next for Lionel Messi?
Details regarding Messi's future in club football are not confirmed at the time of writing. Reports suggest potential options, including playing in Florida or returning to Rosario, but no official announcement has been made.
In this story
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Trend snapshot
- Topic
- Sports
- Trending in
- Belgium
- Search interest
- 2000+ recent searches
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- Verified: 3 independent outlets
- Last updated
- Oct 7, 2026 at 9:00 AM
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