Messi Bids Farewell to Argentina After 207 Appearances
· Sports · Indian Express, Times of India
Lionel Messi made his final appearance for the Argentina national team at Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium on October 6, 2026. The 39-year-old football legend was seen in tears as he travelled to the stadium amid huge crowds waving flags and holding banners. Messi entered the match with 207 appearances and 125 goals for Argentina, having debuted in 2005. He led the team to Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, the 2022 Finalissima, and the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. In an emotional post-match speech, Messi said not playing for Argentina anymore would hurt a lot and that he would love to be there for his entire life.
Why it matters
Fans and the football world are mourning the end of an era as one of the greatest players retires from international football. His departure leaves a significant void in Argentina’s national team leadership and legacy.
Read the original report — Indian Express
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