Messi ends Argentina era amid tears and worldwide tributes

BUENOS AIRES — Lionel Messi received an emotional farewell from Argentina after his final international appearance, a 3-0 friendly victory over Benin. In front of around 85,000 supporters, Messi thanked his country and its fans: “Thank you for loving me so much.”

Messi ends his international career with 208 appearances and 126 goals, making him Argentina’s record international and all-time leading scorer.

Coach Lionel Scaloni struggled to contain his emotions. “I cry because Messi is leaving. There will never be anyone like him,” he said, admitting that continuing without Messi will be difficult.

Teammate Enzo Fernández was also overcome with emotion, while tributes poured in from around the world. Neymar said not only Argentina, but the whole world should thank Messi for what he has meant to football. Ronaldinho and Ángel Di María also paid tribute.

President Javier Milei described Messi as “the best of all time,” while Argentine newspaper La Nación portrayed his farewell as his final entry into footballing immortality.

It marks the end of an extraordinary era for Argentina and world football.