(Video) The ultimate parting gift: Referee surprises Messi as Argentina icon bows out

06.10.26 FT Friendly International

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Lionel Messi brought his monumental international career to a close on Wednesday morning but the emotional send-off was punctuated by a highly unusual tribute, as Chilean referee Fernando Véjar gifted the Argentina national team captain his match cards following a 3-0 friendly victory over Benin.

Read Also: A Tribute to the First Winner: Why the Ballon d'Or is Leaving France for England

A Bizarre Memento to Conclude an Era

Playing his 208th and final match for the Albiceleste at a packed Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, the 39 year old orchestrated a commanding 3-0 victory. Delivering a vintage performance, Messi scored a penalty and provided two assists before the final whistle signaled the end of his 21 year international journey.

As players from both Argentina and Benin crowded around the legendary No. 10 to offer their congratulations, match official Fernando Véjar joined the gathering.

After sharing a warm handshake with the forward, the Chilean referee surprised onlookers by handing Messi the physical yellow and red cards he had used during the fixture as an eccentric, personalized parting gift.

Tears and Gratitude in Buenos Aires

The quirky refereeing gesture provided a moment of levity on an otherwise heavy and emotional night. Following the on-pitch embraces, Messi addressed the 85,000 supporters in attendance with a poignant farewell speech that left several of his teammates in tears, most notably Manchester City midfielder Enzo Fernández who suffered a heartbreaking red card during Argentina's recent 2026 World Cup final defeat to Spain.

"There are so many emotions I am feeling right now... Perhaps I will certainly forget many of the things I would like to say because this is a very difficult moment for me. I leave feeling grateful, proud and with a clear conscience. Thank you for everything" Messi told the roaring crowd.

The friendly against Benin served as the official bookend to a retirement decision that Messi finalized privately just two days after the crushing World Cup final loss to Spain, before officially confirming his departure to the public in August.

The Weight of the Final Whistle

Ending his international tenure with 126 goals in 208 appearances,
Messi leaves behind a legacy defined by both agonizing heartbreaks and ultimate triumphs, most notably the 2022 World Cup victory.

The visible emotion from younger players like Enzo Fernández underscores the daunting psychological reality now facing the Argentine squad: they must finally learn to navigate the international stage without the safety net of their greatest-ever player.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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