Messi to bid farewell to Argentina in upcoming Benin friendly

Lionel Messi will play his last match for Argentina in a forthcoming friendly against Benin, marking the end of an extraordinary international career spanning nearly two decades. The Inter Miami forward has decided the time is right to step away from international football after achieving his lifelong ambition of winning the FIFA World Cup with Argentina in Qatar last year.

The friendly fixture provides Messi with an appropriate platform to say goodbye to Argentine supporters and his teammates after years of dedicated service to the national squad. His decision to retire from international football comes following Argentina's triumphant World Cup campaign, which saw the South American nation claim their third world championship title.

Messi's international career has been marked by numerous achievements and records, establishing him as one of the greatest players to ever represent Argentina. The 36-year-old has been a cornerstone of the national team through multiple Copa America tournaments and World Cup campaigns, consistently delivering outstanding performances on the global stage.

The match against Benin will give Messi the chance to celebrate his legacy with Argentine fans before concluding his international career on a high note. His retirement from international football allows him to focus entirely on his club commitments while leaving behind an indelible mark on Argentine football history.