Messi Closes 21-Year International Era with Emotional 3-0 Win Over Benin

Key points

• Messi scored his 126th international goal via a penalty in the 71st minute and assisted the opening goal, helping Argentina defeat Benin 3-0.
• The farewell match at the Estadio Monumental sold out in 90 minutes, with resale prices exceeding $2,500, and featured players from Argentina's 1978, 1986, and 2022 World Cup-winning squads.
• Messi announced his international retirement in August 2026, shortly after Argentina lost the 2026 World Cup final to Spain, citing the need for a new generation and personal reasons including his father's recent death.
• Despite retiring from international football, Messi will continue playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, with his contract extending through the 2028 season.
• The event included cultural tributes, such as a drone show and performances by folk singer Soledad Pastorutti, alongside a pre-match ceremony involving Messi's three sons.

Background

Messi's international career spanned 21 years, during which he won two Copa América titles and the 2022 World Cup, ending a long-standing drought for Argentina. His retirement followed a period of intense public scrutiny and debate regarding his commitment to the national team, which shifted dramatically after his 2021 Copa América victory and subsequent World Cup triumph. The 2026 World Cup final loss to Spain marked a poignant end to his international journey, prompting a national farewell that highlighted his status as a cultural icon in Argentina.

How outlets are covering it

Bleacher Report emphasized the emotional tone of Messi's pre-match video message, highlighting his gratitude to fans. AP News focused on the broader cultural impact, noting how Messi's success provided a sense of national pride amidst economic and political instability, and detailed the logistical scale of the farewell, including ticket sales and historical player appearances. USA Today provided a detailed play-by-play of the match, underscoring the tactical aspects and the involvement of younger players like Nico Paz, while also capturing the post-match ceremony and Messi's direct address to the crowd, where he defended the team's performance in the 2026 World Cup final against allegations of referee bias.

Why it matters

Messi's retirement marks the end of an era in international football, symbolizing the transition from a legendary figure to a new generation of players. The event underscores the deep cultural significance of soccer in Argentina, where Messi's achievements have been intertwined with national identity and resilience. His continued presence in Major League Soccer ensures his influence remains, but the farewell highlights the irreplaceable nature of his contribution to the sport and his home country.

What to watch

Messi will return to action for Inter Miami on October 10, 2026, against D.C. United. The Argentine national team will now focus on developing younger players, such as Nico Paz, to fill the void left by Messi's departure. The football world will likely see increased attention on emerging talents as Argentina seeks to maintain its competitive edge in international competitions.