Emotion, tears as Messi retires from Argentina national team

During his time with the Albiceleste, Argentina won one World Cup, were runners-up twice (Brazil 2014 and North America 2026) and were also crowned Copa America champions in 2021 and 2024.

Emotion, tears as Messi retires from Argentina national team (Photo: Citizen Digital)

Argentina's forward #10 Lionel Messi waves to fans in a tribute after the international friendly football match between Argentina and Benin at the Mas Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires on October 6, 2026. (Photo by Luis ROBAYO / AFP)

Lionel Messi brought the curtain down on his 21-year international career on Tuesday, bidding farewell to adoring Argentina fans in an emotional final appearance for the former world champions in Buenos Aires.

Originally published by

Citizen Digital

7 Oct 2026 · citizen.digital

Kenya's Citizen Digital: news, politics, business, sports and entertainment.

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