Lionel Messi’s legendary Argentina career came to an end last night – and he signed off in fitting fashion.
The 39-year-old found the net in Argentina’s friendly victory over Benin, scoring what would prove to be the final international goal of his extraordinary career.
After more than two decades representing La Albiceleste, Messi had already confirmed that the game would be his final appearance for his country.
#AD10S ?
— ?? Selección Argentina ??? (@Argentina) October 7, 2026
?? #Argentina ?? 3 ? Benín ?? 0
?? Otro más. En su noche.
Quisiera que esto dure para siempre ? pic.twitter.com/gN10KPICGY
The End of an Era
Messi leaves international football having completed virtually everything possible with Argentina.
After years of near misses, he finally lifted the Copa América in 2021 before achieving the ultimate prize by captaining Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022.
He would go on to win another Copa América and continued representing his country into his sixth World Cup in 2026.
Now, after one final goal against Benin, one of the greatest international careers in football history is over.
