Lionel Messi Bids Farewell to Argentina at the Estadio Monumental
Lionel Messi ended his 21-year international career with Argentina following a 3-0 victory against Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. Playing before an audience of 85,000 supporters, the national team captain scored once from the penalty spot and contributed two assists. The match marked the conclusion of an era for the forward, who leaves the Albiceleste as the nation’s all-time record holder with 208 appearances, 126 goals, and 67 assists.
An Emotional Concluding Speech and Tribute to Diego Maradona
Addressing the stadium crowd after the final whistle, Messi delivered an emotional farewell address that focused on gratitude, personal loss, and his enduring attachment to the national jersey. The player spoke candidly about his late father, Jorge, who passed away in August, noting that playing his first international match without him added immense weight to the evening. The first thing I think of is my old man,
he stated. Messi shared that while he departs feeling grateful, proud and at peace,
he admitted that leaving the national team will hurt a lot.
He further noted that he spoke longer than usual because he did not want the moment to end, emphasizing that to achieve the greatest things, you need a strong group.
Messi also dedicated a specific tribute to Diego Maradona, stating that the iconic number 10 had helped the team both from the past and from heaven during every step of their journey.
Contasting International Futures With Cristiano Ronaldo
While Messi confirmed that his international retirement is definitive, longtime football rival Cristiano Ronaldo responded via Instagram to mark the occasion. Ronaldo commented on social media to praise his counterpart, writing: Leo, many years spent defending your country and a history that will remain forever. You have all my respect for everything you have achieved with Argentina. A hug.
The public exchange highlighted two distinct career paths winding down, as Ronaldo’s own future with the Portuguese national team remains potentially temporary while Messi’s chapter with Argentina is officially closed.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Retirement Match
Why was the match against Benin chosen for the farewell?
The fixture served as a celebratory gala at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, allowing 85,000 fans to witness Messi pull on the Albiceleste shirt one final time before his retirement.
What were Messi’s exact match statistics in his final appearance?
Messi concluded his international career with one goal scored via a penalty kick and two assists during the 3-0 victory against Benin.
How long did Lionel Messi’s international career last?
Messi’s career with the Argentina national team spanned 21 years, culminating in 208 total appearances and six trophies won with the senior squad.
Reflections on the Albiceleste Legacy
In a personal social media post following the match, Messi expressed his deep connection to the team, stating, I am grateful. I love you very much, I will miss you.
He acknowledged that while the journey was filled with joy, it also contained moments of sadness, yet he remains convinced he made the right decision. Messi reflected on the 2022 World Cup as the realization of both his personal dream and that of an entire nation. Despite his desire to continue, he noted that if it were up to him, he would stay forever, as playing for Argentina is the most beautiful thing there is.
It remains unknown if any future exhibition match could see him return to the pitch, a possibility that neither the federation nor the player has addressed.
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