A storybook chapter in football history came to a fitting close as Lionel Messi delivered an unforgettable performance in his final appearance for Argentina. Masterminding a 3-0 victory over West African side Benin at the iconic Estadio Mâs Monumental in Buenos Aires, the football icon stamped his signature on all three goals—scoring once and assisting twice—to seal an emotional farewell.
The host side dominated possession from the opening whistle, subjecting Benin’s defense to a stern test. Although the Albiceleste forward line pressed relentlessly—with Messi orchestrating several sharp attacks—they were initially unable to find the back of the net.
When the match reached the 10th minute, the referee briefly paused play for ninety seconds in honor of the legendary number 10. The packed crowd inside the stadium rose to their feet, filling the arena with thunderous applause and standing chants of “Olé, Olé, Olé, Messi!” to pay homage to the superstar.
