Messi retires from Argentina after record 208 caps and 126 goals
The 39-year-old played his final match, a 3-0 win over Benin, before an emotional farewell ceremony in Buenos Aires.
KEY POINTS
- Messi played final Argentina match vs Benin on Oct 6, scoring in 3-0 win
- Retires with records: 208 caps, 126 goals, 68 assists for Argentina
- World Cup records: 34 matches, 23 wins, 21 goals (2nd all-time)
- Won 2022 World Cup, two Copa América titles, Finalissima, Olympic gold
- Will continue club career with Inter Miami through 2028
Lionel Messi played his last match for Argentina on October 6 in a 3-0 friendly victory over Benin at Estadio Más Monumental. The 39-year-old forward scored a penalty for his 126th international goal in his record 208th appearance.
A farewell ceremony followed the match, featuring a drone show for the crowd of over 85,000 and a tearful embrace with his 13-year-old son Thiago. Messi thanked his family, teammates, coaches, and fans in a social media post.
“Leo, you served your country for years and wrote a story that will be remembered forever. I have great respect for what you achieved with Argentina.”
Messi finishes as Argentina's all-time leader in caps, goals, and assists (68). He holds World Cup records for most matches played (34) and most victories (23), and ranks second all-time in World Cup goals with 21.
His trophy haul with the senior team includes the 2022 World Cup, two Copa América titles (2021, 2024), and the 2022 Finalissima. He also won Olympic gold in 2008 and the U-20 World Cup in 2005.
Cristiano Ronaldo praised Messi on social media, writing that he served his country for years and wrote a story that will be remembered forever. Messi will continue his club career with Inter Miami, where he is under contract through 2028.
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