Messi Caps Farewell With Goal As Argentina Cruise Past Benin 3-0

Lionel Messi marked his farewell appearance for Argentina with a goal as the world champions defeated Benin Republic 3-0 in an international friendly.

The Argentine captain played a starring role as Argentina secured a comfortable victory, with Nicolás Otamendi opening the scoring before Messi struck twice in the second half.

Otamendi put Argentina ahead shortly before half-time, converting in the 44th minute to give the hosts a 1-0 lead at the break.

Messi then doubled the advantage in the 61st minute, finishing a move involving Nicolás Paz to put Argentina firmly in control.

The 39-year-old completed his memorable outing from the penalty spot in the 71st minute, calmly converting to make it 3-0.

Benin, despite their efforts to respond, were unable to breach the Argentine defence as the South Americans comfortably saw out the remainder of the match.

The victory provided a fitting conclusion to Messi’s reported final appearance for Argentina, with the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner once again finding the net in the national team colours.