Messi Retires from Argentina with 126th Goal in Emotional 3-0 Win Over Benin
Lionel Messi officially ended his 21-year international career with a 3-0 victory over Benin in Buenos Aires, scoring his 126th goal for Argentina. The event, billed as 'The Last Tango,' featured a massive crowd, a drone show, and an honorary doctorate from the University of Buenos Aires. Messi confirmed his retirement from national duty following the 2026 World Cup final loss to Spain, though he remains under contract with Inter Miami until 2028.
Key points
- Messi scored his 126th international goal from a penalty in the 71st minute of a 3-0 friendly win against Benin at the Estadio Monumental.
- The match marked his 208th cap and featured a 10th-minute stoppage for a minute-long ovation honoring his jersey number, 10.
- Argentina won the Copa America in 2021 and 2024, and the World Cup in 2022, but finished as runners-up in the 2026 World Cup final against Spain.
- Messi received an honorary doctorate from the University of Buenos Aires prior to the match and cited his late father's passing as a factor in his retirement decision.
- He remains under contract with Inter Miami until 2028, though he has hinted at potentially retiring from club football sooner due to personal circumstances.
Background
Messi's international career spanned 21 years, culminating in a 2022 World Cup title that ended Argentina's 36-year wait for a third global championship. He also led the team to Copa America victories in 2021 and 2024. His final international appearance followed a 1-0 loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final in New Jersey, where he expressed his desire to step aside for younger players. The farewell event was preceded by an honorary doctorate ceremony at the Argentine Football Association headquarters, where Messi joked about his new academic status.
Why it matters
Messi's retirement marks the end of an era for Argentine football, as the country must now replace its most iconic player in modern history. His departure leaves a significant void in the national team's leadership and talent, particularly after a recent World Cup final defeat. The event also highlights the cultural impact of football in Argentina, with massive public turnout and institutional recognition, while setting the stage for the next generation of players to fill his shoes.
What to watch
Argentina will need to integrate younger players into the national team to replace Messi's influence. Messi will continue his club career with Inter Miami until at least 2028, though he has indicated he may retire from professional football sooner due to personal reasons. The national team will focus on rebuilding its squad for future tournaments, including the 2027 Copa America and the 2027 World Cup qualifiers.
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