Lionel Messi bids farewell to the national team with a magnificent ceremony
Playing with 1 goal and 2 assists in Argentina's 3-0 friendly win over Benin, Messi concluded his 21-year national team career.
Lionel Messi, the legendary name of the Argentina National Team, wore the national jersey for the last time in a friendly match against Benin. Playing in Buenos Aires where Argentina won 3-0, Messi produced 1 goal and 2 assists, bringing his 21-year national team career to a close with this match.
Historic Farewell at the Monumental Stadium
The approximately 85,000-capacity Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires hosted the friendly match between Argentina and Benin.
Winning the match 3-0, Argentina crowned this special night with a victory as their legendary footballer Lionel Messi bade farewell to the national team.
Besiktas Player Took to the Field
Besiktas player Junior Olaitan competed wearing the Benin jersey in this historic match where Lionel Messi bade farewell to the national team.
Before the match, Olaitan stated that playing against and sharing the same pitch with the greatest footballer in history was a dream.
Illuminated Drone Show in the Sky
In honor of the Argentine star's departure from the national team, a special illuminated drone show was performed in the sky during the match.
During the display, the legendary figure's jersey and silhouette were projected into the sky above the stadium via drones.
Records and Trophies Won
Lionel Messi broke records by scoring 126 goals in 208 matches while wearing the national jersey for 21 years.
Holding the title of the player with the most goals in national team history in South America, Messi won 1 FIFA World Cup, 2 Copa America titles, 1 Finalissima, 1 Olympic gold medal, and 1 FIFA U-20 World Cup.