Lionel Messi ends Argentina international career with victory over Benin

Lionel Messi played his final match for Argentina in a 3-0 friendly victory over Benin in Buenos Aires on Tuesday, ending a 21-year international career, ABC News Australia and the New York Post reported. Al Jazeera said around 85,000 fans attended the match at the Monumental Stadium to bid farewell to the captain. [1][3][4]

According to the New York Post and ABC News Australia, the 39-year-old scored a penalty and provided two assists during the win. ABC News Australia added that the match marked Messi's 208th international appearance and his 126th goal for his country, both of which stand as national records. [3][4]

ABC News Australia reported that Messi addressed the crowd after the game, telling supporters that he loved them, would miss them, and was proud to be Argentine. The Daily Mail noted that the sendoff was emotionally charged as Messi paid tribute to his late father in front of the sold out stadium. [2][4]

Messi currently plays as a forward for Major League Soccer club Inter Miami. Over his 21 years with the national team, he won two Copa América titles and a World Cup championship for Argentina. [3][12]