Lionel Messi ended his Argentina career in style as the world champions secured a 3-0 victory over Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.
Playing his final match for the national team, Messi contributed a goal and two assists as Argentina turned a goalless first half into a comfortable victory after the break.
Argentina dominated possession and created several chances in the opening 45 minutes, but Benin held firm to keep the score level at halftime.
The hosts finally broke the deadlock in the 48th minute when Nicolas Otamendi headed home from a corner delivered by Messi.
Argentina doubled their advantage in the 61st minute, with Messi setting up young forward Nico Paz for the second goal.
Messi then completed the scoring in the 71st minute, finding the net himself to give Argentina a 3-0 lead.
The match marked the emotional conclusion of Messi’s 21-year journey with Argentina. Thousands of supporters packed the Monumental to watch the 39-year-old make his final appearance in the national colours.
The Argentine Football Association had prepared a special farewell programme, including musical performances, a cultural show, a drone display and fireworks before and after the match.
For Messi, the night was about more than a friendly victory. It brought an emotional close to one of the most remarkable chapters in Argentine football history, with the country’s all-time greats bidding farewell to the national team after more than two decades of service.
COMMENTS