Messi leads Argentina to 3-0 win over Benin in his international farewell

Lionel Messi scored and contributed to all three goals as Argentina beat Benin in a 3-0 victory, in his final international match. The friendly took place at the Monumental in front of more than 80,000 spectators. Messi played the full match, which also brought his 21-year international career to a close.

Argentina opened the scoring in the 48th minute when Messi created the chance finished by Nicolás Otamendi. He set up the second goal, scored by Nico Paz, in the 61st minute, then converted a penalty in the 71st. After several first-half chances went unconverted, the forward made a decisive impact after the break.

Before kick-off, Benin’s captain presented Messi with a keepsake as a tribute to the Argentine star. Messi’s arrival on the pitch alongside his three children was an emotional moment. The crowd came to say farewell, and Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni also showed his emotion.

The match closed Messi’s international career with Argentina. During those 21 years, he won several major titles with the national team.