Emotion, tears as Messi retires from Argentina national team
Summary
Lionel Messi bid an emotional farewell to Argentina fans in Buenos Aires in what was billed as his final appearance for the national team. He scored in a 3-0 win over Benin as supporters, family and teammates celebrated his 21-year international career.
Key Points
- Lionel Messi ended his 21-year international career with an emotional final appearance for Argentina in Buenos Aires.
- He scored a penalty and assisted once as Argentina beat Benin 3-0 in front of 85,000 fans.
- Messi said retiring was painful but insisted the time had come, citing the demands of the World Cup campaign and the need to make way for younger players.
- Argentina and football figures, including Neymar, paid tribute to Messi, who remains contracted to Inter Miami until 2028.
