Worldwide soccer legend Lionel Messi played his final match for Argentina on Tuesday night, helping his team to a 3-0 victory over Benin in an international friendly at Buenos Aires’ Estadio Monumental.
More than 85,000 fans packed the stadium to witness the 39-year-old make his final appearance in the famous sky blue and white jersey.
Messi scored his final international goal in the 71st minute, finding the back of the net in an unforgettable penalty. Following the final whistle, a spectacular drone show illuminated the sky above the Estadio Monumental, celebrating iconic moments from his legendary career with Argentina.
Tuesday’s match marked Messi’s 208th appearance for Argentina, the second-most international appearances by a men’s player, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal. He also retires as Argentina’s all-time leader in both appearances and goals.
After the match, Messi reflected on his international career, saying that representing Argentina was “the most wonderful thing that can happen to you.”
Although his international career has come to an end, Messi will continue playing at the club level with Inter Miami. He will no longer represent Argentina or compete in future international tournaments.