Lionel Messi’s international farewell against Benin

◆1 source

Lionel Messi was given an international farewell during a friendly match between Argentina and Benin. He was honored with tears, fireworks and tributes after what was described as his final appearance in Argentina’s blue and white. He was described as the most decorated footballer ever, with 47 football awards, and as the best footballer in the world. His relationship with Argentina’s national team was characterized as erratic before he became a football hero, following his rise at FC Barcelona and the early recognition of his talent in the club’s youth academy.

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Lionel Messi’s final match for Argentina

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Lionel Messi played his 208th and final match for Argentina as the team beat Benin 3-0 in a friendly at the sold-out Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. The 39-year-old scored once, from a penalty, and supplied two assists in front of about 85,000 spectators. Argentina staged a farewell ceremony for Messi, with fans lining the route to the stadium, a drone show and fireworks. Messi appeared emotional during the national anthem before ending his international career.

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Lionel Messi ended his international career for Argentina

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Lionel Messi ended his international career for Argentina. Cristiano Ronaldo had also temporarily stopped playing for Portugal after leaving the national team angrily. The discussion focused on whether Messi’s farewell meant international football had lost its biggest player and whether he was the best footballer of all time.