
Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the Argentine national team after over 20 years, expressing pride in having worn the Albiceleste shirt and declaring that not returning will be a great pain, at the end of his last match against Benin, won 3-0 in front of over 80,000 spectators at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires.
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Lionel Messi played for the Argentina national team for over 20 years, winning the World Cup in 2022 and becoming one of the most iconic footballers in the country's history.
Argentine football idol Lionel Messi expressed his "great pride" for having worn the Albiceleste shirt "for over 20 years", at the end of his last national team match played on Tuesday and sealed by a final goal.
"It was a great pride for me to defend this shirt," said the number 10 after his team's victory against Benin (3-0) in this farewell friendly match, in front of over 80,000 spectators gathered at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires. "I have nothing but thanks.
Not coming back will be a great pain," said the 2022 world champion, who is leaving the international scene at 39.

The tribute to Lionel Messi at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires will include the singing of the Argentine national anthem by a veteran of the 1982 war and the display of the 'The Malvinas are Argentine' banner, used by the Selección after the victory against England in the World Cup, as confirmed by singer and former fighter Fabio Santana.

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In a five-page letter released by the Portuguese media, Cristiano Ronaldo apologizes for abandoning the Portuguese national team's retreat and declares himself willing to return and win with the team, while criticizing coach Jorge Jesus for not keeping his word regarding his use on the pitch.

In a five-page letter released by the Portuguese media, Cristiano Ronaldo apologizes for abandoning the Portuguese national team's retreat and declares himself willing to return and win with the team after the disqualification, however criticizing coach Jorge Jesus for not keeping his word.

Neymar published a message on social media to pay homage to Lionel Messi after the Argentine's last match with the national team, calling it an honor to have played alongside him and thanking him for making him love football even more.

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