Messi bids emotional farewell as Argentina beat Benin 3-0

Lionel Messi ended a 21‑year run with the Argentina national team on Tuesday, receiving a standing ovation from the 85,000 fans packed into the Estadio Monumental. The 39‑year‑old, widely regarded as the greatest player of his generation, announced his retirement before the match and was given a ten‑minute pause in the 10th minute for a round of applause.

Argentina cruised to a 3‑0 victory over Benin, with Messi scoring from the penalty spot and providing the assists for the other two goals. The win marked his 126th international goal, a record for the South American side, and capped a farewell that was as scripted as it was heartfelt.

The Guardian noted that Messi’s departure leaves a monumental legacy and a squad that will now look to rebuild without their talisman. Highlights of the match, including the farewell moments, are available on the site for fans who want to relive the final chapter of an extraordinary career.