Lionel Messi bows out of Argentina after emotional farewell match

Lionel Messi concluded a 21-year international career on Tuesday in Buenos Aires, where a packed Monumental Stadium witnessed his 208th cap and a 3-0 victory over Benin. He opened the scoring with a penalty in the 71st minute, raising his goal count to 126, and earlier had assisted veteran Nicolas Otamendi for the first goal. The event was marked by emotional moments, including a pre-match tribute with a giant "Gracias" jersey and a minute of applause for his iconic number 10.

Messi’s family watched from a VIP box, and a drone show later illuminated the sky with his likeness. Prior to the game, the University of Buenos Aires awarded him an honorary doctorate, and former teammate Neymar posted a tribute on social media.