Lionel Messi brought an emotional end to his 21 year international career on Tuesday night in Buenos Aires. The 39 year old superstar played his final match for Argentina in front of 85,000 passionate fans at the Monumental Stadium and signed off in perfect style with his 126th international goal.
Argentina defeated Benin 3-0 in a game that felt more like a celebration than a competitive fixture. Messi created the first goal with a clever assist for veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi. Nico Paz added the second before the captain himself scored from the penalty spot in the 71st minute. It was his 208th appearance for the national team, a record that may never be broken.
The night was filled with pure emotion. Messi wiped away tears as the team bus moved slowly through streets packed with supporters. He walked onto the pitch holding hands with his three children while his wife Antonela and mother Celia watched proudly from the stands. A giant Argentina jersey with the word “Gracias” and his famous number 10 was laid out on the grass as the crowd roared.
In the tenth minute the referee stopped the match so the entire stadium could give Messi a long and loud standing ovation. After the final whistle a stunning drone show lit up the sky with images of the eight time Ballon d’Or winner and messages of thanks.
Speaking to the fans, Messi said defending the Argentina shirt for more than twenty years had been the greatest pride of his life. He admitted that not playing for the national team anymore would hurt deeply, yet he felt the time was right. The recent World Cup campaign, which took place while his late father was seriously ill, had taken a heavy emotional toll.
Messi leaves the international stage as a true legend. He led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title, ending a 36 year wait, and also won two Copa America trophies. Fans, teammates and rivals across the world have poured in tributes. Even former teammate Neymar thanked him for making everyone fall in love with football all over again.
Although he still plays for Inter Miami, Messi has given everything to the blue and white jersey. The Last Tango has ended, but the memories will last forever.
