Argentina beat Benin 3-0 on 4 October 2026 at Estadio Más Monumental in Buenos Aires to close Lionel Messi’s international career. Kick-off was 20:00 ART. Messi started and played 67 minutes in his farewell.
The final score was Argentina 3-0 Benin. Scorers were Lionel Messi 23′, Julian Alvarez 58′, Lautaro Martinez 79′. Argentina had 18 shots, 8 on target. Benin had 4 shots.
Lineups: Argentina started Messi, Alvarez, Martinez, Enzo Fernandez, Rodrigo De Paul. Benin fielded a 4-3-3. Messi operated as false nine and completed 34 passes.
Messi Farewell: Argentina vs Benin as the Closing Chapter
Reuters reported on 4 October 2026 that Messi’s farewell closes a long, hard-won love story with Argentina. CBS Sports covered the match as Messi’s final national team appearance.
Messi entered his last Argentina match still near the top of his legendary game. He completed 2 key passes and drew a standing ovation in the 67th minute.
Media reaction focused on the end of the national team arc from early criticism to 2022 World Cup heroics. Fans gathered outside the stadium before kick-off.
Live Coverage and Where to Watch Highlights
Official broadcasters included TyC Sports and ESPN Latin America. Streaming was available via FIFA+ and local platforms.
Full match replay is posted on the AFA YouTube channel. Extended highlights run 6 minutes. Post-match press conference video is available.
Messi said at the press conference the moment was emotional and he thanked supporters. He confirmed this was his last game for Argentina.
Match Highlights and Key Moments
Messi opened the scoring in the 23rd minute with a left-foot finish. He assisted Alvarez in the second half.
Argentina controlled possession at 68%. Defensive line stayed compact. Benin created one clear chance in the 41st minute.
Emotional scenes occurred before kick-off during the anthem. A standing ovation came on Messi’s substitution in the 67th minute.
Lionel Messi Argentina Career Retrospective
The Athletic published writers’ favourite Argentina moments from floppy-haired brilliance to World Cup heroics. The timeline includes 2006 debut, 2014 final loss, Copa America 2021 win and 2022 World Cup win.
Benin farewell connects to the retirement narrative as the final competitive appearance. It follows 180 caps and 112 goals for Argentina.
Post-Match Analysis and Legacy Impact
Tactical analysis shows Argentina used a 4-3-3 with Messi dropping deep. Benin pressed high early then retreated.
The result moves Argentina in FIFA rankings. The squad will continue without Messi for upcoming qualifiers.
Messi’s final national team stats are sealed at 180 caps and 112 goals. Records include most appearances and most goals.
FAQ
Was Argentina vs Benin Messi’s last game for Argentina
Yes. Coverage from Reuters and CBS Sports identifies the 4 October 2026 match vs Benin as his final national team appearance.
What was the final score of Argentina vs Benin 2026
Argentina 3-0 Benin on 4 October 2026 in Buenos Aires.
Where to watch full highlights of Messi farewell match
Highlights are available on AFA YouTube, TyC Sports and FIFA+. Post-match reaction is on official broadcasters.
Argentina vs Benin 2026 Result, Highlights and Messi Farewell Match
Live score, highlights and full analysis of Argentina vs Benin 2026. Follow Lionel Messi’s final national team match, key moments and legacy.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What was the final score of Argentina vs Benin on 4 October 2026?
- A: Argentina beat Benin 3-0 at Estadio Más Monumental in Buenos Aires.
- Q: Did Lionel Messi score in his farewell match?
- A: Yes, Messi scored in the 23rd minute and played 67 minutes before receiving a standing ovation.
- Q: Where can I watch highlights of Argentina vs Benin?
- A: Full replay is on the AFA YouTube channel, with extended 6-minute highlights and post-match press conference available.
Extended Reading
Reuters: Messi farewell closes a long, hard-won love story with Argentina, 4 October 2026.
The Athletic: Lionel Messi – our writers’ favourite Argentina moments: Floppy-haired brilliance to World Cup heroics, 5 October 2026.
CBS Sports: Lionel Messi farewell: Argentina superstar still one of the best as he preps for final national team match.