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Messi plays farewell match in Buenos Aires, ending international career with 207 appearances and 125 goals.
Lionel Messi played his farewell match for Argentina against Benin in Buenos Aires, marking the end of his international career. The match served as a ceremonial conclusion to one of football's most decorated international tenures.
Messi finishes with 207 appearances and 125 goals for Argentina, cementing his place among the sport's all-time greats. His international retirement comes following Argentina's World Cup final loss, which prompted his initial announcement of stepping away from the national team. The farewell appearance in his home country provided a formal goodbye to supporters who witnessed his career with the national squad.
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Messi's international journey spans decades with record-setting statistics
From his international debut through his farewell match in Buenos Aires, Messi accumulated 207 appearances and 125 goals for Argentina. This farewell fixture represents the natural endpoint of an extended international career that concluded following the World Cup final loss that prompted his retirement decision.
Retirement announcement followed by ceremonial farewell match in home country
Messi announced his international retirement after Argentina's World Cup final loss, made public from New Jersey. Subsequently, he played his farewell match against Benin in Buenos Aires, providing Argentina supporters a final opportunity to witness him represent the national team in his home stadium.