Lionel Messi Bids Emotional Farewell to International Football with Stellar Performance

Lionel Messi concluded his illustrious international career with a memorable farewell match against Benin, where he scored a goal and provided two assists. The event was filled with emotional tributes from teammates, fans, and football legends, celebrating Messi's extraordinary legacy. From receiving an honorary doctorate to a spectacular drone show, the night was a fitting tribute to a player who transformed Argentina's fortunes on the global stage. As Messi reflected on his journey, he expressed gratitude for his time with the national team, leaving a lasting impact on football and his fans worldwide.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 8, 2026, 00:24 IST

Messi's Farewell Match: A Celebration of Legacy

Buenos Aires, Argentina - On October 7, Lionel Messi concluded his international football journey in a spectacular fashion, contributing a goal and two assists in Argentina's 3-0 victory over Benin during his farewell match at home.

The event was filled with heartfelt tributes honoring Messi's remarkable legacy, featuring emotional moments from teammates, football legends, and fans, alongside a visibly moved Messi.

Among the highlights was Messi receiving an honorary doctorate from the University of Buenos Aires, complemented by a stunning drone show that showcased pivotal moments from his illustrious career. In Argentina, where football is deeply cherished, Messi stands alongside Diego Maradona as one of the nation's most celebrated athletes, having led the country to numerous records and significant titles throughout his international tenure.

Prior to the match, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) shared on their official X account, "#SelecciónMayor Argentine captain Leo Messi received today the title 'Doctor Honoris Causa' from the University of Buenos Aires. Congratulations, legend!"

A Memorable Match Filled with Emotion

The first half of the match ended without any goals, but Argentina quickly took the lead shortly after the break. Messi assisted Nicolas Otamendi in the 48th minute, who scored the opening goal.

Messi was instrumental in the second goal as well, setting up Nico Paz for a beautiful curling shot that doubled Argentina's lead, igniting celebrations among the home crowd.

The 39-year-old capped off the scoring with a penalty, sealing the match at 3-0 and adding yet another memorable moment to his extraordinary international career.

As the final whistle blew, Messi embraced his teammates on the pitch while the stadium erupted in chants and applause, marking a poignant end to an era where he significantly altered Argentina's international fortunes.

Messi Reflects on His Journey

In a post-match interview surrounded by his teammates, Messi, visibly emotional, expressed his gratitude, stating, "I have nothing left to do but thank this shirt. For 20 years, even through the worst moments, I never stopped fighting, pushing forward, giving everything I had and wanting to be here. Not coming here anymore and no longer being with the Argentina National Team is going to hurt a lot. If it were up to me, I would love to be here for my entire life, because playing for Argentina is the most beautiful thing there is. I think I am talking more than ever today because I simply don’t want this moment to end."

He acknowledged that it was the right time to retire, reflecting on their near-miss at becoming World Champions again, saying, "We gave everything."

Messi also recounted the draining experience of the FIFA World Cup semifinal against England, admitting it left the team exhausted ahead of the final against Spain, which they lost.

He dismissed conspiracy theories surrounding the final, affirming, "In reality, nothing strange happened; we gave it our all. We fought hard, just as we always did, wearing these shirts, alongside all the teammates I shared the journey with."

Tributes Pour In from Around the World

During the post-match festivities, a special drone light show illuminated the skies at the Monumental Stadium, celebrating Messi's legacy, including his Copa America and FIFA World Cup victories.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino shared an emotional farewell, acknowledging Messi's timeless magic in international football, stating, "Congratulations and thank you, @leomessi! The emotions were incredible as the passionate @afaseleccion fans and your loyal supporters all over the world witnessed your timeless magic in international football one last time."

Brazilian football star Neymar Jr. also expressed his admiration for Messi, stating, "Anyone who loves football has enjoyed you throughout all these years... Today is your final game wearing the shirt of your national team, your country, and I hope you enjoy every second of it."

Former Brazilian player Ronaldinho Gaúcho shared his sentiments, saying, "What a pleasure and what joy to have been part of your story from the very first day, brother! You made us smile and enjoy football so much!"

Messi's Legacy and Impact

River Plate, one of Argentina's most prestigious clubs, honored Messi by naming him an Honorary Member, presenting him with a commemorative membership card and a special jersey.

Croatian legend Luka Modric praised Messi's brilliance, stating, "It is a shame he is retiring, but it’s his decision, and we have to respect it. He has achieved something incredible with the national team; he has won the World Cup he wanted so much."

Young Argentine players expressed their sadness at Messi's departure, with Enzo Fernandez visibly emotional, stating, "We are going to miss him a lot."

As Messi's 20-year international career comes to a close, the tributes from rivals, former teammates, and fans reflect his profound impact on Argentina and the world of football.