From Buenos Aires Times · · 50s
Messi's final farewell
Lionel Messi retires from Argentina national team after 21-year career.
In brief
Lionel Messi retires from Argentina national team after 21-year career. Lionel Messi retired from international football after 21 years with Argentina, citing his late father's illness and the World Cup campaign as reasons. Originally reported by Buenos Aires Times.
Messi's final match
Lionel Messi played his 208th international match in a 3-0 victory over Benin.
208th cap
Messi scored his 126th international goal in front of 85,000 supporters.
Emotional farewell
Messi wiped tears as he walked to the pitch with his children and family.
Last World Cup
Messi cited his late father's illness and the 2022 World Cup as reasons for retirement.
Final tribute
A drone show thanked Messi for his career after the match.
Family support
Messi's wife and mother watched from a VIP box during the match.
What it means
Lionel Messi retired from international football after 21 years with Argentina, citing his late father's illness and the World Cup campaign as reasons.
