Lionel Messi Bids Farewell to Argentina at Estadio Monumental
Lionel Messi ended his illustrious career with the Argentina national team on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, playing his final match at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires against Benin uol.com.br, Estadão. On that date, Argentina had to stand still before Benin to witness the penalty goal—the 126th of Lionel Messi’s career with the Albiceleste shirt, Estadão. The match concluded in a 3-0 victory for the Albiceleste, featuring a penalty goal and two assists from Messi, uol.com.br, VEJA, Estadão. Over his international career, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner established himself as Argentina’s all-time leading scorer with 126 goals and 70 assists, while lifting the 2022 World Cup and two Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024 VEJA.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Teammates Pay Tribute Following the Final Match
Following the final whistle, football figures and international peers shared public tributes to mark the conclusion of Messi’s international tenure. Cristiano Ronaldo posted a message on Instagram stating, Leo, so many years defending your country and a history that will last forever. All my respect for what you achieved with Argentina. Hugs,
as reported by VEJA. Within the squad, goalkeeper Juan Musso revealed a personalized inscription on his match-worn shirt where Messi wrote, For Juan, with much affection. I’m going to miss showering you with goals and making you angry.
according to CNN Brasil.
Security Restrictions Spark Frustration for Benin Players
While the match served as a historic farewell celebration, tensions arose regarding post-match interactions between the two squads. Benin national team coach Gernot Rohr criticized the security measures enforced at the Estadio Monumental in an interview with French radio station RMC Sport, O GLOBO reported. Rohr stated that his players were blocked from entering the player tunnel and unable to secure match memorabilia or swap jerseys with Argentine players, noting, They didn’t even give us a photo.
O GLOBO. Despite these logistical frustrations, Rohr described the fixture as an extraordinary and rich international experience for his young squad, adding that he successfully obtained an autograph from Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni on a 2018 Messi jersey O GLOBO.
Nico Paz Steps Into the Spotlight as Messi Exits
Midfielder Nico Paz emerged as a central figure during this transition period for the national team, stepping into the side as Messi departs. Playing for Italian club Como—which finished fourth in Serie A last season and secured a Champions League spot—Paz recorded 40 appearances, 13 goals, and seven assists, earning the league’s best midfielder honors uol.com.br. During the international break, the midfielder participated in all three matches and scored one goal in each (against Bolivia, Burkina Faso, and Benin), in addition to providing an assist uol.com.br. Discussing the young midfielder’s integration, Messi noted that Paz reads the game exceptionally well and feels comfortable controlling possession, remarking that the youngster was not even born when Messi made his own first-division debut uol.com.br.
Frequently Asked Questions About Messi’s Final International Appearance
Which team did Lionel Messi play against in his final match for Argentina?
Lionel Messi played his final international match against the Benin national team at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, with Argentina winning the fixture 3-0 uol.com.br, VEJA.
How many international goals did Lionel Messi score for Argentina?
Messi concluded his international career as Argentina’s all-time leading goalscorer with 126 official goals, alongside 70 assists, according to records detailed by VEJA.
What specific complaint did Benin coach Gernot Rohr raise after the match?
Benin coach Gernot Rohr told RMC Sport that stadium security barred his players from entering the player tunnel to swap shirts or take photographs with members of the Argentina squad, as reported by O GLOBO.
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