Messi's emotional farewell to international football - in pictures

  • Argentina captain Lionel Messi cries in a tribute after playing his final game for the country at Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires on October 6, 2026. AFP
    Argentina captain Lionel Messi cries in a tribute after playing his final game for the country at Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires on October 6, 2026. AFP
  • Argentina players gather to pay tribute to captain Lionel Messi, whose final game for the national team ended in a 3-0 win. Reuters
    Argentina players gather to pay tribute to captain Lionel Messi, whose final game for the national team ended in a 3-0 win. Reuters
  • Lionel Messi signed off his international career with a goal in the 3-0 win over Argentina. Reuters
    Lionel Messi signed off his international career with a goal in the 3-0 win over Argentina. Reuters
  • Lionel Messi gave an emotional speech, thanking Argentina fans for their support. AFP
    Lionel Messi gave an emotional speech, thanking Argentina fans for their support. AFP
  • Lionel Messi, his wife Antonela Rocuzzo and their son Ciro leave the pitch. AFP
    Lionel Messi, his wife Antonela Rocuzzo and their son Ciro leave the pitch. AFP
  • Lionel Messi vies for the ball with Imourane Hassan of Benin. EPA
    Lionel Messi vies for the ball with Imourane Hassan of Benin. EPA
  • Lionel Messi scored from the penalty spot for his 126th and final Argentina goal. EPA
    Lionel Messi scored from the penalty spot for his 126th and final Argentina goal. EPA
  • Lionel Messi of Argentina celebrates his goal. EPA
    Lionel Messi of Argentina celebrates his goal. EPA