Lionel Messi turned his official farewell to Argentina into a gala performance Tuesday, contributing a penalty and two assists in a 3-0 win over Benin at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, where the crowd offered a deafening final ovation to the genius who defined the footballing pulse of a nation for two decades. In front of 85,000 fans, the superstar capped off an international career spanning 21 years, 126 goals, a 2022 World Cup victory, and two Copa América titles. “I’m going to miss you all. Now I’ll be on your side, supporting the national team and the guys who come next,” Messi promised. “When we’re united, we’re stronger than anyone and can overcome anything. Tough times lie ahead, because what this group achieved won’t be easy to repeat.” Before his farewell at the stadium, Messi received an honorary doctorate from the University of Buenos Aires. Read the full story at the link in bio. #APPhotos by Gustavo Garello, abdrodrigo, natachapisarenko