Lionel Messi is set to make his final appearance for Argentina on Tuesday when the World Cup holders face Benin Republic at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.
Ahead of the farewell match, the Argentina captain reflected on his remarkable international career, saying he was leaving the national team with no regrets after giving everything for his country.
“The moment has arrived. I leave in peace, I gave it my all,” Messi said.
The 39-year-old also spoke about what representing Argentina has meant to him, describing the national team shirt as something deeply personal.
“This shirt was my dream, my pride, and my life for years,” he added.
Messi also expressed gratitude to the supporters who have stood by him throughout his 21-year international career.
“Thank you for loving me so much, thank you for your support. I will always carry you with me,” he said.
The forward announced his decision to retire from international football in August, bringing an end to a remarkable career with Argentina.
He leaves the national team as its record goalscorer, having scored 125 goals in 207 appearances.
Tuesday’s encounter against Benin Republic will be his 208th and final appearance for the Albiceleste, bringing to a close an international journey that began in 2005.
Messi’s career with Argentina was not without disappointment. He endured several painful defeats with the national team before eventually helping the country end its long wait for major international trophies.
He led Argentina to Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024 before completing the biggest achievement of his international career by winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
His final match has been planned as a celebration of his extraordinary contribution to Argentine football, with more than 85,000 supporters expected to fill the Monumental.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has also invited members of the 2022 World Cup-winning squad and their families to attend the occasion.
Argentina will mark the farewell with a special commemorative kit, while Messi is expected to wear the famous No. 10 shirt for the final time.
The AFA had previously confirmed that no other player would take the number before Messi’s farewell.
After ending his international career, Messi will continue playing at club level with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS).
His final appearance for Argentina is expected to bring an emotional conclusion to one of the most decorated international careers in football history.
