Lionel Messi plays his 208th and final international match for Argentina
After 21 years with the Albiceleste, the 39-year-old World Cup winner bids farewell at Estadio Mâs Monumental in Buenos Aires.
Key facts
- Lionel Messi makes his 208th and final appearance for Argentina in a friendly against Benin in Buenos Aires.
- Across 207 prior caps, Messi recorded 125 goals, captaining Argentina to the 2022 World Cup and two Copa América titles (2021, 2024).
- The Argentine Football Association organized a full celebration ceremony with 2022 World Cup teammates before 84,000 supporters.
- Messi stated: "This jersey was my entire life. Closing this chapter in front of our people makes it complete."
- Messi will continue his club career with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
Lionel Messi is making his 208th and final international appearance for Argentina at the Estadio Mâs Monumental in Buenos Aires on Tuesday night. The celebratory friendly against Benin marks the conclusion of a 21-year international career for the 39-year-old forward.
Messi made his senior international debut in August 2005. Over the subsequent two decades, he earned more caps and scored more goals (125) than any other player in South American football history, culminating in the 2022 FIFA World Cup title in Qatar and back-to-back Copa América victories in 2021 and 2024.
The Argentine Football Association scheduled an extensive post-match ceremony featuring musical performances and tributes alongside members of the 2022 World Cup squad. The stadium capacity of more than 84,000 sold out within minutes of tickets being released.
Speaking ahead of the fixture, Messi reiterated that the decision is final, explaining his desire to allow the next generation to take leadership while he completes his remaining club obligations with Inter Miami.
Context
Messi won the 2008 Olympic gold, the 2021 and 2024 Copa América, and the 2022 World Cup with Argentina. He is the country's all-time leading appearance maker and top goalscorer.
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