Lionel Messi retires: A look back at Argentine legend’s best matches for country

Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football on Monday, concluding a remarkable 2-decade-long career with Argentina from 2005 to 2026. During this time, the Argentine star clinched a World Cup title, two Copa America championships, an Olympic gold medal in 2008, set 8 Ballon d'Or records, and guided Argentina to the runner-up spot in the 2026 World Cup. He scored 125 goals and provided 68 assists in 207 appearances for his national team.

The Argentine legend's finest performances include:

1. The 2022 World Cup final against France - Messi etched his name in history by securing his final major trophy in this penalty shootout victory. He scored two goals in the match, including a dramatic extra-time winner, as Argentina emerged triumphant.

2. The 2021 Copa America quarterfinal against Ecuador - Messi delivered a masterclass in attacking football, providing two assists to Rodrigo de Paul and Lautaro Martinez. He himself scored a stunning free kick in added time to complete a 3-0 victory.

3. The 2026 World Cup semifinal comeback against England - Facing a one-goal deficit, England's Thomas Tuchel made a costly defensive switch, allowing Messi to orchestrate a stunning equalizer and provide a cross for Lautaro's decisive header. Once again, Messi's leadership shone through.

4. The 2026 World Cup opener against Algeria - Messi became the oldest player to score a World Cup hat-trick at the age of 37, edging out Cristiano Ronaldo's record. His three goals helped Argentina dominate the match.

5. Breaking Miroslav Klose's World Cup record - Messi netted a brace against Austria, surpassing Germany's all-time leading scorer and ultimately finishing the tournament with 21 goals.