Lionel Messi has officially retired from international football, closing a remarkable chapter that spanned more than two decades and over 200 appearances for Argentina. His journey with the national team featured unforgettable highs, heartbreaking lows, and ultimately the glory every fan dreamed of.
It all started awkwardly in 2005. As an 18 year old, Messi came on as a substitute against Hungary and was sent off just 90 seconds later. The following year he made his World Cup debut in a 6-0 win over Serbia and Montenegro, scoring his first goal for the senior side and beginning a special relationship with the tournament.
By 2014 he was already a global superstar. Messi captained Argentina to their first World Cup final in 24 years, scoring in every group game. Yet Germany stopped them in the final at the Maracana, adding to earlier disappointments that included quarter final exits and Copa America final losses.
The lowest point came in 2016. After another penalty shootout defeat to Chile in the Copa America final, Messi announced he was quitting the national team. He had reached four finals without winning a major title. Six weeks later he reversed the decision and returned.
Everything changed under coach Lionel Scaloni. In 2021 Messi finally lifted the Copa America trophy after Argentina beat Brazil 1-0 in the final. The ultimate prize arrived the next year in Qatar. At 35, Messi produced a masterclass, scoring seven goals and providing three assists. In the final against France he scored twice and converted his penalty in the shootout as Argentina claimed their third World Cup title.
He continued as a world champion, leading the side to another Copa America win in 2024. In the 2026 World Cup he equalled records for appearances and scored freely, guiding Argentina to yet another final. Spain defeated them in extra time, ending his international career at 207 matches and 125 goals.
From a red card on debut to lifting the biggest trophy in football, Messi’s time with Argentina will be remembered as one of the greatest stories in the sport.
