‘Grateful, proud and at peace’ – emotional Messi plays final Argentina game
Lionel Messi says he is “grateful, proud and at peace” after his glittering Argentina career ended with a goal against Benin on an emotional night in Buenos Aires. The 39-year-old, playing his 208th and final international game, converted a second-half penalty and registered two assists in a comfortable 3-0 friendly win. Messi, who announced his […]
Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, expressed his emotions while playing his final game for Argentina against Benin. The 39-year-old, who announced his retirement from international football in August, scored a penalty and provided two assists in a 3-0 friendly win. This was his 208th and last appearance for the national team.
The match came just days after Messi learned of his father's passing, following a long illness. After the game, Messi delivered an emotional speech, expressing gratitude, pride, and peace, specifically mentioning his father in his remarks. The 85,000-strong crowd, along with Messi's teammates, were visibly emotional, with some even in tears.
Messi's career with Argentina spanned 20 years, during which he won the World Cup and two Copa América titles. He is currently signed with MLS team Inter Miami, whose contract runs until the end of 2028.
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