Lionel Messi Concludes International Career with Emotional Farewell Match

Lionel Messi has officially retired from international football after a heartfelt farewell match against Benin, where he scored a penalty and led Argentina to victory. The match, attended by over 85,000 fans, marked the end of a 21-year journey filled with remarkable achievements. Referee Fernando Vejar's unique gesture of presenting Messi with both a yellow and red card added a sentimental touch to the occasion. As Messi transitions to club football with Inter Miami, his legacy as one of the greatest players in history remains firmly established, inspiring future generations of footballers.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 7, 2026, 18:30 IST

Lionel Messi's Final International Appearance

The iconic Argentine footballer, Lionel Messi, officially ended his remarkable international career following a friendly match against Benin at Estadio El Monumental in Buenos Aires on October 6.

In August, Messi announced his retirement from the national team shortly after the death of his father, Jorge Messi. The 39-year-old enjoyed a storybook conclusion to his international journey, as La Albiceleste triumphed over Benin with a score of 3-0, featuring a penalty goal from Messi in the 71st minute, marking the end of a 21-year chapter with Argentina.

An impressive crowd of over 85,000 fans gathered at Estadio Mas Monumental to witness Messi's last game in the Argentina jersey, where he delivered a classic performance to bid farewell.

Referee's Unique Gesture Towards Messi

During Messi's farewell match, referee Fernando Vejar presented him with both a yellow and a red card at the conclusion of the game, a gesture that surprised many.

After the final whistle, Vejar approached Messi to congratulate him on his illustrious career. He then pulled out both cards from his pocket, handing them to Messi as a symbolic farewell rather than for any disciplinary reason.

This touching moment was captured on camera, showing Messi surrounded by teammates, opponents, and coaching staff, all celebrating his remarkable career with a final standing ovation.

WHY WAS THE REFEREE GIVING MESSI ALL THE CARDS AS GIFTS

— ✧ (@JustToluX_) October 7, 2026

Messi's farewell resonated deeply with fans worldwide, marking the end of his time wearing Argentina's iconic blue and white stripes, a journey that brought him global acclaim and an unmatched legacy.

While he will continue his club career with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, the chapter of his international exploits has officially concluded after 21 years.

The Significance of the Referee's Cards

The act of presenting both cards by referee Fernando Vejar has intrigued fans, as it was a rare display of respect rather than a disciplinary action.

Vejar's gesture was symbolic, intended as a commemorative memento for Messi's last international match. The referee thought it fitting to gift the actual yellow and red cards used during the game as a farewell token.

Interestingly, Messi's international career began on a challenging note when he received a red card just 47 seconds into his debut against Hungary in August 2005. Thus, Vejar's presentation of both cards at the end of his final match served as a poignant reminder of Messi's extraordinary journey with La Albiceleste.

Messi retires from international football with an impressive record of 126 goals in 208 appearances, alongside titles including the 2022 FIFA World Cup, 2021 and 2024 Copa America championships, and the 2022 Finalissima, solidifying a legacy that will inspire future generations.