Messi Ends Argentina Career With Benin Victory as Rohr Criticises Host Treatment

Argentina's captain Lionel Messi brought his 21-year international journey to a close on Tuesday, securing a 3-0 triumph over Benin at Buenos Aires' Monumental Stadium. The 39-year-old netted via penalty and assisted twice more during what he characterized as the toughest moment in his sporting career.

His final tally: 208 appearances in the national colors, 126 goals scored, and possession of a World Cup trophy. Following the farewell fixture, FIFA President Gianni Infantino offered public recognition of Messi's sporting legacy.

The FIFA chief commended the Argentine star for generating unforgettable moments that resonated with fans at home and spectators across the world. Addressing the 80,000-plus crowd in attendance, Messi stressed that representing Argentina's colors throughout two decades had filled him with tremendous satisfaction.

Shadowing the tributes to Messi's departure were complications surrounding post-match procedures. Benin's coach Gernot Rohr leveled accusations at Argentina regarding the management of player interactions following the final whistle.

According to Rohr, his squad encountered barriers when attempting to swap jerseys or capture images alongside Messi and his teammates, with security protocols enforced by Argentina preventing such contact. Now that Messi has stepped away from international play, Cristiano Ronaldo maintains possession of records the former Barcelona star will not achieve.

Ronaldo's name stands atop the list for career international appearances and international goals combined. The Portugal star additionally holds the record for scoring against the most different national teams, a benchmark Messi cannot surpass after ending his competitive career.