The 39-year-old Messi, regarded by many as the greatest footballer of all time, signed off from his Argentina career with his 126th international goal in what his record-extending 208th appearance.

The scenes at the Monumental Stadium were crazy even before the game had started, with huge crowds flocking to catch a glimpse of the Argentina team bus as they made their way into the cauldron.

Messi took the field alongside his three children to line-up for the national anthems, while a huge Argentina jersey bearing the word "Gracias" (Thank You) was unveiled before kick off.

There was still a football match game to be played though, and Benin certainly gave a good account of themselves as they held the hosts goalless going into the half-time break.

Messi's celebration party was not going to go out on a whimper though and it was the superstar that sent in a corner for Nicolas Otamendi to break the deadlock just three minutes after the interval.

Just after the hour mark the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner then gave the pass to Nico Paz, who sent a brilliant left-footed curler beyond visiting goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou.

The crowing moment of the evening came with 20 minutes remaining when Agustin Giay was fouled by Yamirou Ouorou, and Messi stepped up to smash his penalty past Dandjinou.

Messi ends his international career after having won all there is to win in international football, including lifting the FIFA World Cup as captain in 2022 in Qatar and Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024, while he also helped Argentina win a gold medal at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.

Messi remains under contract with MLS side Inter Miami until 2028, although following the death of his father, Jorge, two months ago, he revealed he may hang up his boots for good sooner than anticipated.

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