Lionel Messi brought his 21-year Argentina career to an emotional conclusion against Benin on Tuesday.
The 39-year-old bowed out with 126 goals from 208 appearances. He also helped Argentina beat Benin 3-0 at the Estadio Monumental.
Messi scored once and provided two assists during his final appearance. His teammates then joined the emotional celebrations in Buenos Aires.
However, Argentina’s kit also looked noticeably different for the historic occasion. Adidas replaced its famous three-stripe logo with Messi’s personal brand icon for his farewell appearance.
It marked a special tribute to the Argentina captain before his final international match. Adidas also incorporated a Sun of May graphic across the front and back of the shirt.
The symbol is a national emblem of Argentina and appears on the country’s flag. The company released the special kit after Messi shared an emotional farewell video with supporters.
Adidas also published a video featuring memorable moments from his international career.
Messi’s journey with Argentina included several major triumphs after years of disappointment in international tournaments.
He captained his country to the Copa America title in 2021. Argentina then won the Finalissima before lifting the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Another Copa America triumph followed in 2024. Messi also helped Argentina reach the 2026 World Cup final, where they finished runners-up to Spain.
His farewell brought that extraordinary international career to an end. Messi delivered a lengthy speech on the pitch after the victory over Benin.
He thanked his team-mates and reflected on achieving his childhood dream of becoming a world champion. Attention will now return entirely to his club career with Inter Miami.
Messi has scored 21 goals and supplied 11 assists across 24 MLS appearances this season. He will now focus on Inter Miami’s domestic campaign after ending his historic association with Argentina.
Leo: “thank you for loving me so much”
us: 🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹 https://t.co/fx2Zffq1er— adidas Football (@adidasfootball) October 6, 2026
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