Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football, calling it the "saddest day of my career" after Argentina's 3-0 victory over Benin. In his final match at the Monumental Stadium, Messi contributed a goal and two assists, concluding a 21-year career with the national team. He expressed immense pride in representing Argentina and the deep pain of his departure, despite wishing to play indefinitely. Messi reflected on the bittersweet return to the Monumental, acknowledging the emotional toll of the 2026 World Cup campaign. Argentina reached the final, losing to Spain, and overcame rivals England in the semifinal. Messi stated he has no regrets about the timing, feeling the last World Cup's exertions were too much, and believes this is the right moment to step aside.