Messi Argentina retirement ended with a 3-0 win over Benin Republic as the captain promised to keep supporting the national team

Lionel Messi has made an emotional final promise to Argentina fans after bringing his illustrious international career to an end with a 3-0 friendly victory over Benin Republic in the early hours of Wednesday, October 7, 2026.

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The farewell at the end of the match gave the Argentina captain an opportunity to address the 85,000 supporters who gathered to celebrate the closing chapter of his remarkable career with the national team.

Messi leaves international football as Argentina’s most-capped player and leading goalscorer, having made 208 appearances and scored 126 goals for the country.

Speaking to the packed stadium after the victory, the Inter Miami forward acknowledged the emotional significance of his departure and assured supporters that his connection with the national team would continue.

“I am going to miss all of you so much, but I will always be on your side. I will be supporting these boys and everyone who comes after them,” Messi said.

The statement offered a glimpse into the bond Messi has developed with Argentina supporters throughout a career that has included some of the most significant achievements in the country’s football history.

His departure marks the end of an extraordinary international chapter that saw him become Argentina’s record appearance holder and top scorer.

The 3-0 victory over Benin Republic therefore carried significance beyond the result, serving as a farewell celebration for a player who has spent years at the centre of Argentina’s football story.

For the next generation of Argentina players, Messi’s promise to remain behind the team means his influence will continue even after his playing days with the national side have ended.

The national team will now begin the process of moving into a new era without its captain and record goalscorer, while Messi prepares for the next chapter of his career with Inter Miami.

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His final message to the supporters was simple but significant: retirement from international football does not mean an end to his support for Argentina.