Playing for Argentina the most beautiful thing: Messi bids emotional farewell

Buenos Aires: Lionel Messi expressed deep gratitude and emotion after his farewell match for Argentina, saying that representing the national team was the most beautiful experience of his career. He reflected on two decades of dedication, acknowledging that stepping away from the team would be painful and admitting he wished he could continue playing for Argentina for the rest of his life. Messi signed off from international football in fairytale fashion, delivering two assists and scoring a goal as Argentina secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Benin in Buenos Aires on Tuesday night. "I have nothing left to do but thank this shirt. For 20 years, even through the worst moments, I never stopped fighting, pushing forward, giving everything I had and wanting to be here. Not coming here anymore and no longer being with the Argentina National Team is going to hurt a lot. If it were up to me, I would love to be here for my entire life, because playing for Argentina is the most beautiful thing there is. I think I’m talking more than ever today because I simply don’t want this moment to end,” Messi said after his farewell match, as per 433. In what was billed as his final appearance for the national team, the Argentine maestro delivered a performance befitting his extraordinary international career, orchestrating Argentina's second-half dominance and giving the home crowd a memorable farewell.After a goalless first half, Argentina broke the deadlock shortly after the restart, with Messi setting up Nicolas Otamendi in the 48th minute to put the hosts ahead.Messi was again at the heart of Argentina's attack for the second goal, teeing up Nico Paz, who produced a superb curling finish to double the advantage.The 39-year-old then completed the scoring from the penalty spot, calmly converting to make it 3-0 and putting the finishing touch on a memorable final appearance.As the final whistle sounded, Messi embraced his Argentina teammates on the pitch while supporters filled the stadium with chants and applause. The emotional scenes provided a fitting conclusion to an era in which the forward helped transform Argentina's fortunes on the international stage.River Plate names Lionel Messi Honorary Member River Plate honoured football icon Lionel Messi by naming him an Honorary Member of the club, as the Argentine superstar bids farewell to international football following his illustrious career with the national team.Messi received a commemorative membership card, a plaque and a special River Plate jersey bearing his name in recognition of his illustrious football career and contribution to the sport.Messi signed off from international football in fairytale fashion, delivering two assists and scoring a goal as Argentina secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Benin in Buenos Aires on Tuesday night.“On a historic day and accompanied by the President @stefanocdicarlo, the greatest player of all time received the membership card that distinguishes him as an Honorary Member of the Club, a commemorative plaque, and the Sacred Jersey with his name. Thank you for the football, Captain!” River Plate football club wrote in an X post. FC Barcelona celebrated Messi’s remarkable international career, recalling his gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and his historic achievements with Argentina. The club congratulated Messi for his lasting impact and for making the iconic Argentina jersey even more legendary.“From that gold medal in Beijing in 2008 to an unforgettable career, making history every step of the way with La Albiceleste. Congratulations, Leo, for continuing to make Argentina’s jersey even more iconic!” FC Barcelona wrote an X post. Ronaldinho's emotional farewell message to MessiBrazilian legend Ronaldinho paid heartfelt tribute to the star footballer. Ronaldinho praised Messi’s extraordinary career and said he was proud to have been part of his journey from the beginning. He highlighted Messi’s contribution to Argentina’s World Cup triumph, his dedication to the national team and his lasting legacy in football. Ronaldinho also expressed understanding of Messi’s focus on family and wished his former teammate happiness and success in life.“A pleasure and what joy to have been part of your story from the very first day, brother! You made us smile and enjoy football so much!!! Your name is etched in the history of your country, of the whole world... Only we know the joy we felt when we fulfilled our childhood dream, representing our entire nation and becoming world champions!!!! You gave everything for your national team and for your country... I understand you perfectly, and I know that everything related to family makes us rethink things... Enjoy life, brother. I wish you the very best, today and always,” Ronaldinho wrote in an X post.