Lionel Messi has played his final game for the Argentina national team after playing in the friendly match against Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where they won 3-0.
Messi was honored by the Argentinian fans at the stadium, where he received a standing ovation in the 10th minute. Messi provided two assists and scored in his final game with Argentina. It was his 932nd career goal and his 126th goal with the national team.
Messi was not only given tributes by the fans and his Argentina national team teammates, but he also received messages from football star players who played with him throughout his career.
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One of the big names to write a special message to Messi was Brazilian legend Neymar, who acknowledged Messi’s time with the Argentina national team despite playing for Argentina’s rivals.
On his social media, Neymar wrote, “Who loves football has enjoyed you throughout these years…Today is your last game in the shirt of your national team, of your country, and I hope you savor every second, and that all the tributes today make you happy. It’s not just Argentina that thanks you; the world thanks you for everything you did for football.
Thank you for making me love football even more; it was an honor to have played against you and even more so to make history by your side. THANKS, Leo Messi.”
Angel Di Maria was present at the Estadio Monumental to watch Messi’s farewell game with the national team and also had special words for his former teammate on the national team.
Di Maria said, “The day that nobody wanted to come has officially arrived. It’s time to say goodbye to Messi. But today I saw the photos and videos he posted, and seeing him so happy and at peace, knowing that he gave everything he had, makes all of us happy too… Thank you for everything, Leo. We will be grateful to you for the rest of our lives.”
Another Brazilian legend who had some words for Messi as he retired from the national team is former FC Barcelona teammate Ronaldinho.
Ronaldinho wrote, “Enjoy life, my brother. I wish you all the best, today and always. You’re the greatest!”
Another kind message Messi received was from current Inter Miami teammate Luis Suarez, who repaid the gesture after Messi sent Suarez a message during his Uruguay national team retirement in 2024.
Suarez said, “I hope you enjoy your last match in your country’s jersey so much, that jersey that was so important in your career. You’ve lived unbelievable things and achieved accomplishments that any player dreams of achieving while representing his country. So you deserve, rightfully, recognition from all people, in appreciation of your career and what you represented for your country. So be very proud of yourself.”
