FP
Fakayejo Paul
Lionel Messi has officially hung up his international boots for Argentina, signing off on his legendary 21-year tenure with La Albiceleste in an emotional 3–0 farewell match against Benin at River Plate’s Estadio Mâs Monumental.
The 39-year-old icon signed off in fitting fashion, converting a 71st-minute penalty and setting up two goals to complete a storybook exit in front of 85,000 adoring supporters.
Unbeatable Fortress: Messi at El Monumental
Throughout his two decades representing the national team, River Plate’s iconic home ground served as an impenetrable fortress for the captain:
- Played: 29 Matches
- Wins: 23 Victory Celebrations
- Draws: 6
- Defeats:0 — Never lost a single international fixture at the stadium.
Legendary International Record
- 208 Caps & 126 Goals: Departs as Argentina’s most-capped player and undisputed all-time leading scorer.
- Trophy Cabinet: Concludes his international journey having captained Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, two Copa América titles (2021, 2024), and the 2022 Finalissima.
- Next Steps:While his international story has concluded, Messi continues under contract with Inter Miami in MLS.