Messi bids farewell to Argentina in one last match
According to Sports.
Context
Lionel Messi, who has dedicated over twenty years to the Argentine national team, has experienced a journey of ups and downs with his compatriots. His recent victory in the 2021 Copa America and 2022 World Cup has finally cemented his legacy as a national hero, making his farewell even more significant for Argentine fans.
Why it matters
Lionel Messi's farewell to the Argentine national team marks the end of a historic era for Argentine football. With 125 goals and numerous trophies, including two America's Cups and a World Cup, Messi represented a symbol of hope and pride for the country. His departure leaves a void that is difficult to fill, so much so that the fans are preparing to say goodbye to their hero with great emotion.
Key points
- Messi bids farewell to Argentina in one last match.
- Argentina is preparing to say goodbye to Lionel Messi, who plays his last match with the national team against Benin.
- Argentina bids Messi farewell in final national team match, ending an era - Yahoo Sports.
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Argentina is preparing to experience a historic moment: the farewell to the national team of Lionel Messi, one of the greatest footballers of all time. On Tuesday, the 39-year-old Messi will take to the field for his final game in the Albiceleste shirt in a friendly against Benin, a match that, while friendly, takes on profound meaning for a country that has revered its star player for over two decades.
Messi has racked up 125 goals, won two America's Cups and a World Cup, and is now preparing to leave the international stage. Valentino Ruso, a 17-year-old youth, expressed the collective feeling of sadness: "It feels like an era is ending, knowing that he won't play for the national team anymore. I'm sad. I think everyone is down in the dumps today. We will miss him."
The love and criticism that Argentines have reserved for Messi has been intense and complex. Since leaving Rosario aged just 13 for Barcelona, Messi has become a global icon, but has faced doubt over his loyalty to the national team. However, his dedication to Argentina is now undeniable. Victory in the Copa America in 2021 and in the World Cup in 2022 have finally silenced the detractors and established Messi as a national hero.
Argentina rallied to pay tribute to Messi, transforming his last match into a national event, dubbed "the last tango". Tickets for the match have been snapped up, selling out within minutes, and the atmosphere will be full of emotion with players from the 1978, 1986 and 2022 World Cup winning teams taking part in the celebration.
Upon entering the pitch, Messi will be greeted by fireworks, while the fans chant his name. A large banner featuring his number 10 shirt will be unfurled on the pitch, with the simple words: "Gracias".
Memories of Messi's triumphs are vivid in the minds of Argentines, who see him not just as a footballer, but as a symbol of hope and resilience. In a country often marked by political and economic difficulties, football has been one of the few sources of collective joy.
The last few weeks have been dotted with nostalgic tributes, newspaper articles and murals celebrating Messi's career. From Buenos Aires to Patagonia, fans gathered to honor their idol, while the capital's Obelisk shone in the colors of the Argentine flag. His number 10 shirt now has no designated heir, with the coach. Lionel Scaloni who said the decision will only be made after Tuesday's match.
Messi's contract with Inter Miami runs until 2028, but the ritual of seeing Messi carry the hopes and anxieties of the Argentine people to every game is coming to an end. "Watching Messi play was like witnessing a miracle. I saw things that I don't think I'll ever see again" concluded a fan. The end of an era has finally arrived, leaving an indelible mark on the history of Argentine football.
What happens now
After his last match against Benin, Messi may focus on his career at club level, but his impact on Argentina will remain indelible. The match, dubbed 'the last tango', will be a hugely popular event, with fans ready to pay homage to their champion. The transition of the national team without Messi will represent a significant challenge for the future of Argentine football.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Messi's last match with Argentina?
Messi played his last match with the Argentine national team in a friendly against Benin.
Who confirmed Messi's farewell to the national team?
Messi's farewell was confirmed by official sources and the context of the event, which celebrates his career with Argentina.
Why is Messi leaving the Argentine national team now?
Messi leaves the national team after a career spanning over twenty years, which culminated in winning the America's Cup in 2021 and the World Cup in 2022.
What changes will there be after Messi's departure?
After Messi's departure, Argentina will have to face the transition without one of its greatest players, changing the dynamic of the team.
How did the public react to Messi's farewell?
The public reacted with sadness and nostalgia, expressing the collective feeling of loss for the end of an era.
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