Here’s everything Lionel Messi said after Argentina’s final game, as the Benin players gave him some special gifts.
Lionel Messi was touched when players from Benin gave him three gifts during the last game of his Argentina career, showing respect for one of the greatest players ever.
At the emotional match held at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, Messi, after a 21-year journey with Argentina, helped his team win 3-0 with two assists and a goal. In the 71st minute, the 39-year-old scored his 126th and final goal for his country from a penalty, bringing tears as he spoke to cheering fans after announcing his retirement at the end of August.
Messi’s amazing career includes winning Olympic gold in 2008, playing 208 games for Argentina, and leading them to a World Cup win four years ago – achievements that set a high bar for future players.
He thanked everyone who supported him over the years, starting with a special mention for his late father Jorge, who passed away recently.
“It’s a lot to feel right now. The first thing I think about is my dad,” Messi said. “I just want to say thank you. Wearing this jersey for 20 years has meant the world to me. I always gave my best and never stopped loving being part of this team.
“This is a hard moment. I’ve had the chance to travel all over Argentina playing football, and I’m very thankful for everything.”
Messi also spoke about Argentina’s loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, clearing up rumors that anything strange happened during the game.
“We gave it our all,” he said. “The game against England was very tough physically and mentally. We fought hard, but we couldn’t win the championship. I promise every teammate gave everything for this shirt.”
He thanked all his past and current teammates for helping him reach this historic moment and said it will be hard not to play for Argentina anymore.
“Not coming back will be really sad. I wish I could play forever because wearing Argentina’s jersey is the greatest feeling there is.”
Messi ended with a message about teamwork and unity. “Strong teams need to be united, especially when some people want to see us fail. We can’t let that happen.”
Over his incredible international career, Messi set records that might never be broken, including the most World Cup matches played (34), most Copa America appearances (39), and being South America’s top goal scorer.
Despite Benin losing 3-0 to the 2022 World Cup champions, their players were happy to share the field with such a legendary player and showed great respect after the match.
While Messi was a bit annoyed when a Benin player tried to take a selfie before the game—but was told to back off by teammate Amiro Amadou—he was genuinely pleased to receive three gifts from the team.
Before the coin toss, Benin captain Sessi D’Almeida gave Messi a statue, a letter from the whole squad, and a rose. The thoughtful gesture brought a big smile to Messi’s face as he posed for photos and later led his team to a smooth 3-0 win.