Lionel Messi bids emotional farewell to Argentina after 3-0 win over Benin

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New Delhi: Lionel Messi has played his final international match for Argentina, ending a remarkable 21-year international career with a goal and two assists in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Benin at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.

The 39-year-old Messi registered his 208th appearance for Argentina and netted his 126th international goal, both records, for the country in the process.

He played a part in the first goal, having created Nicols Otamendi’s opener before teeing up Nico Paz and then scoring himself from the spot in the 71st minute.

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The event was emotional. The game was interrupted at 10 minutes, in memory of Messi’s unforgettable number.

The video shows Messi walking along the line of fans he has just met as they lift him into the air, wearing a broad smile and an elated expression after the 10 shirt. Even before and during his farewell Messi was in tears and a drone show afterward honored his career.

His departure from national team football will include his win in the 2022 FIFA World Cup and two Copa Amrica success, turning his previously-maligned relationship with his Argentina fans into one of the country’s best sports stories.

Also Read: “I don’t have anything more to give”: Lionel Messi announces retirement from…

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