NEW DELHI: Lionel Messi’s final appearance for Argentina ended with victory, emotion and one last unforgettable night at the Monumental as the South American side defeated Benin 3-0 on Wednesday.The occasion was as much about Messi as the result. The stadium was packed long before kick-off, with the Argentine captain receiving an extraordinary farewell.Fabio Santana, a Malvinas War veteran and singer, performed the Argentine national anthem as Messi stood alongside his children, visibly emotional. A giant Messi shirt covered the pitch before the crowd erupted into a rendition of “Muchachos”.At the 10-minute mark, the match paused for another tribute, with every Benin player taking the opportunity to shake Messi’s hand.Argentina dominated possession early and repeatedly tried to find their captain in dangerous positions. Messi came close with a free-kick from outside the box, but Benin’s goalkeeper made a fine save.Lautaro Martínez also threatened after a run into the area, while another Messi pass nearly released him into space. Benin, however, refused to sit back completely and gradually grew into the contest.They eventually switched to a back five, with Messi receiving close attention whenever he came near the penalty area.As it happened: Argentina vs Benin Highlights
Messi’s assist prompts opener
The breakthrough finally arrived shortly after half-time. Julián Álvarez won a corner after bursting down the left, and Messi delivered the set-piece perfectly.Nicolás Otamendi, left completely unmarked, volleyed home to put Argentina ahead. It was a fitting goal for the veteran defender, who was also making his final appearance for the national team.Argentina doubled their advantage through Nico Paz. The youngster, who had just come onto the pitch as a substitute, collected the ball and produced a beautiful left-footed curling finish, drawing comparisons with Messi’s trademark style.
Messi on the scoresheet
Messi was involved again, providing the assist as Paz announced himself on the biggest stage.Then came the moment everyone inside the Monumental had been waiting for. Messi stepped up from the penalty spot and calmly sent the goalkeeper the wrong way, placing the ball into the top-right corner for 3-0.There was still time for one final glimpse of magic. Messi had a late effort saved before another strike hit the post, and in the dying seconds he won a free-kick in his familiar range. He took responsibility one last time, but the effort sailed over the crossbar.The whistle confirmed Argentina’s 3-0 victory. For Messi, though, the scoreline was almost secondary. The night belonged to the boy from Rosario who became Argentina’s greatest footballer, and who finally said goodbye to the shirt he made his own.
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