Argentina bids Messi farewell in final national team match, ending an era

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – Soccer star Lionel Messi is set to end his 21-year international career on Tuesday after 39 years, with Argentina preparing for a national team without its famous player. The 39-year-old is expected to bid farewell to international soccer after winning two Copa América titles, a World Cup championship and scoring 125 goals for his country.

For many Argentines, Messi's departure marks the end of an era, as he has been a symbol of national pride through years of political and economic instability. Valentino Ruso, a 17-year-old in Buenos Aires, expressed his sadness at the prospect, saying, "It feels like an era is ending, knowing he won’t play for the national team anymore."

Argentina has long had an intense relationship with Messi, with fans adoring and criticizing him for his commitment to both the game and his country. Messi's departure has sparked debate over who will succeed him as the face of Argentine soccer, with some fans already mourning his legacy.