Buenos Aires — Lionel Messi closed out his illustrious 17‑year run with the Argentine national team on a high note, leading La Albiceleste to a 3‑0 triumph over West African side Benin on Tuesday.
Messi’s impact on the night
The 39‑year‑old forward was deployed on the right flank, with Lautaro Martínez anchoring the attack through the middle and Julián Álvarez on the left. A strong starting eleven also featured Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, Rodrigo De Paul, Cristian Romero and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez.
After a goalless first half in which Argentina dominated possession but allowed a few Benin counter‑attacks, Messi opened the scoring in the second period. In the 48th minute he delivered a pinpoint corner from the left side that veteran centre‑back Nicolás Otamendi headed home, sparking an emotional surge for the home crowd.
Passing the torch
Substitute Nico Paz entered the match in the 59th minute, and just two minutes later Messi slipped him a clever pass. Paz curled a left‑footed shot from outside the box into the net, a moment many described as a literal passing of the torch to the next generation.
Later, in the 68th minute, Argentina earned a penalty after Benin right‑back Agustín Giay was judged to have tackled inside the box. Messi stepped up and calmly slotted the spot‑kick in the 71st minute, sealing his personal goal tally for the night.
Final moments and legacy
The match concluded with a final free‑kick from Messi that sailed over the bar just before the final whistle. A spectacular drone show lit the night sky above the stadium, projecting Messi’s iconic jersey and the Argentine Football Association logo as a tribute to his legacy.
Messi departs the national team with a record that includes a FIFA World Cup title, two Copa América crowns and an Olympic gold medal. His 17‑year international career set a standard that will be difficult for any successor to match.
Looking ahead, Argentina will turn to its younger talents, with Nico Paz, Franco Mastantuono and established stars such as Álvarez and Fernández expected to lead the next chapter of Argentine soccer.
While Messi’s club future continues with MLS side Inter Miami, his farewell to the national side was a reminder of the unifying power of sport, a theme that resonates deeply with families and communities across the globe.
Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.
