Messi scores and provides two assists in his final match for Argentina

Lionel Messi played his final match for Argentina on Tuesday night into Wednesday. According to NU.nl, he scored a goal and provided two assists in the victory against Benin, played at the Estadio Monumental. The 39-year-old, who holds the record for most caps, then addressed the Argentine crowd, reports Voetbal International.

An emotional farewell

In his farewell speech, Messi said that many emotions were running through him, according to Voetbal International. He expressed gratitude towards the many spectators present in the stadium. Before this match, he had already sent a video message in which he spoke of his attachment to the Argentine shirt, reports De Telegraaf. In it, he notably said that this shirt had been "his dream, his pride, and his life."

A match dedicated to his departure

This friendly match was entirely dedicated to Messi's farewell, highlights Voetbalprimeur. The match, which kicked off at 01:00, pitted Argentina, the 2022 world champions, against Benin. The player was indeed present at the kick-off of this special match, the same outlet notes.