Lionel Messi ended his illustrious Argentina international career in memorable fashion, scoring one goal and providing two assists as the world champions defeated Benin 3-0 at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires on Tuesday.

The farewell match marked the end of Messi’s 21-year international career, with more than 85,000 fans turning out to celebrate the 39-year-old captain. 

After a goalless first half, Messi provided the assist for Nicolás Otamendi to open the scoring in the 48th minute. He then set up Nico Paz for Argentina’s second goal in the 61st minute. 

Ten minutes later, Messi completed the scoring from the penalty spot, taking his international tally to 126 goals.

The emotional occasion saw Messi visibly moved as teammates, opponents and supporters paid tribute to his contribution to the Argentine national team. He was also joined by members of Argentina’s World Cup-winning squads from 1978, 1986 and 2022. 

Messi leaves international football as Argentina’s most-capped player with 208 appearances and its all-time leading scorer. He won the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 World Cup and another Copa América title during his remarkable international career. 

Speaking after the match, Messi described representing Argentina for more than two decades as a source of immense pride and said he would miss playing for the national team.

The farewell ended with a spectacular tribute at the Monumental, including fireworks and a drone display, as fans chanted Messi’s name and celebrated the end of an era.