Messi Honors Maradona and Late Father After Final Game

Lionel Messi paid tribute to Argentine football legend Diego Maradona and his late father, Jorge Messi, after what was described as his final appearance for the national team. In an Instagram post, Messi expressed his feelings of missing the Argentina jersey but felt confident in his decision to retire from international play.

He described his international career as an “incredible journey” filled with both joy and challenges, emphasizing that every moment was worthwhile. Messi honored Maradona, stating he had elevated Argentina's status in football, and believed Maradona continued to support the nation from “heaven.” Messi's father passed away on August 8, 2026, at age 68, and Messi shared a heartfelt message about missing him during his farewell.

In the match against Benin, Messi scored a penalty and provided two assists, concluding his 21-year international career with 208 appearances, making him Argentina's most-capped player and all-time leading scorer.