Argentina national team captain Lionel Messi played his final match for the national squad. In a friendly game at the “Monumental” stadium in Buenos Aires on October 6, the Argentines defeated the Benin national team 3–0. The match was attended by approximately 85 thousand spectators.

For 39-year-old Messi, this was his 208th match for the national team. The first half ended scoreless. In the second half, Messi provided an assist to Nicolás Otamendi, who opened the scoring. Otamendi also capped off the match. Then, Messi provided the assist for Nico Paz, who scored the second goal. In the 71st minute, Messi himself converted a penalty to seal the final score. This goal marked his 126th for the national team.

Before the match, a large national team jersey bearing the number 10 and the word "Gracias" ("Thank you") was laid out on the pitch. The national anthem was performed by Fabio Santana, a veteran of the Falklands (Malvinas) War. Nearby stood a banner reading "The Malvinas are Argentine." The national team players displayed the same banner after their victory over England in the World Cup semi-final. Players from the 2022 World Cup-winning squad and their families were invited to the match. Among the guests was Ángel Di María, who retired from the national team in 2024.

After the final whistle, Messi addressed the crowd. He said that he loved the fans, would miss them, and was proud to be Argentine. The footballer also stated that he would always want to return to the national team, calling playing for it the most wonderful thing that can happen to a footballer. Referee Andrés Matonte gave him his yellow and red cards as a keepsake. A drone show featuring highlights from Messi's career—including the moment with the 2022 World Cup trophy—was held over the stadium.

Messi announced his retirement from the national team on August 31. His final match was the 2026 World Cup final against Spain, which Argentina lost 0–1 in extra time on July 19. Over the course of 21 years, Messi played 208 matches for the national team and scored 126 goals. He made his debut on August 17, 2005, in a match against Hungary. His achievements include winning the 2022 World Cup and two Copa América titles (in 2021 and 2024). Defender Cristian Romero will take over the captain's armband from him. Messi will continue his club career at Inter Miami, with a contract running through the end of the 2028 season.