Lionel Messi Retires from Argentina National Team After Farewell Match at Mas Monumental
On October 17, 2023, Lionel Messi concluded his international career with Argentina by playing against Benin at the Mas Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires, where the team secured a 3-0 victory. Messi contributed one goal and two assists, finishing as Argentina's leading scorer with 126 goals across 208 appearances. A drone display celebrated his achievements, featuring images and the phrase "¡Gracias Leo!" The following day, Messi took to Instagram to share, "Yesterday was my last game, and I already miss wearing [Argentina's] blue and white [jersey]." He had previously announced his retirement in August after the loss in the World Cup final and the passing of his father. Cristiano Ronaldo commented on Messi's farewell, showing admiration for his achievements.
Key facts
- Lionel Messi played his final Argentina national team match against Benin at Mas Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires
- Argentina won the match 3-0, with Messi scoring one goal and providing two assists
- The sold-out match drew over 85,000 fans and featured a drone show with images of Messi and the message "¡Gracias Leo!"
- Messi retires as Argentina's all-time top scorer with 126 goals in 208 matches, the most appearances in official matches
- Adidas created a special kit for the game featuring Messi's gold logo, number 10, and the Sol de Mayo silhouette
- Messi announced his retirement in August following Argentina's World Cup final loss and the death of his father
- Cristiano Ronaldo paid tribute in a comment on Messi's farewell Instagram post
- Mas Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires is the largest venue of its kind in South America
Entities
Artists
- Lionel Messi
- Cristiano Ronaldo
Institutions
- Argentina National Soccer Team
- Adidas
- Argentinian Football Federation
- River Plate
- TNT Sports Football
- Pop Base
- My Modern Met
Locations
- Buenos Aires
- Argentina
- Benin
- Mas Monumental stadium
- South America