Lionel Messi Faces Awkward Selfie Attempt From Benin Player After Argentina’s 3-0 Win

Buenos Aires witnessed an emotional farewell on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, as Lionel Messi, widely regarded as the greatest footballer of all time, donned the Albiceleste jersey for the 208th and final time. However, the jubilant atmosphere following Argentina's 3-0 friendly win over Benin at the Estadio Monumental was momentarily overshadowed by an awkward interaction involving a Benin player and the retiring legend. Lionel Messi’s Final International Match: Neymar Pens Emotional Farewell Message for Argentina Icon.

Lionel Messi's Farewell Marred by Awkward Selfie Attempt from Benin Player 

Humble’ Lionel Messi refusing a selfie with Benin players and pushing them away. 👎🏼

Biggest false image ever.❌️🇦🇷 https://t.co/itSMwTEvQf

— Tobi Ace 🇬🇧 (@United_Ace7) October 7, 2026

Messi, who officially announced his international retirement on August 31, 2026, after Argentina's FIFA World Cup 2026 final defeat to Spain, had a fairytale ending on the pitch, contributing a goal and two assists to his nation's victory. Yet, as the final whistle blew and celebrations commenced, a moment quickly went viral, capturing Messi's visible discomfort.

The Awkward Encounter

In the immediate aftermath of the match, as players and staff converged on the pitch to congratulate the 39-year-old maestro, a Benin player approached Messi with his phone, seemingly intent on capturing a selfie. Eyewitness accounts and circulating footage indicate Messi appeared "somewhat annoyed or uncomfortable" as the player persisted in his attempt. "Benin players mob him for selfies, a commonplace sight at nearly every match Messi is involved in," noted one report, highlighting the unique nature of the moment given it was Messi's swansong.

This incident, though minor, quickly became a talking point, contrasting sharply with the planned tributes and heartfelt goodbyes that marked the evening. While the specific player involved was not widely named, the interaction underscored the immense global adoration and, at times, invasive attention that has defined Messi's illustrious career.

A Fitting Farewell on the Pitch

Despite the brief post-match interruption, Messi's final performance was nothing short of legendary. The match, an international friendly, saw Argentina secure a decisive 3-0 victory over Benin. Messi himself slotted home a penalty in the 70th minute and provided key assists for the opening goal by Nicolás Otamendi in the 48th minute and Nico Paz's strike in the 61st minute. The Estadio Monumental, packed with 85,018 adoring fans, erupted in celebration of their hero's final exploits.

This final appearance brought an end to Messi's 21-year international career, a journey that included a FIFA World Cup triumph in 2022, two Copa América titles (2021 and 2024), and two World Cup runner-up finishes (2014 and 2026). The match kicked off at 8:00 PM ART (UTC-3) on October 6, 2026, a truly historic night for Argentine football. Lionel Messi to Receive University of Buenos Aires Honorary Degree Ahead of Argentina Farewell Match.

The bittersweet nature of the occasion, marking the end of an era, was palpable, with fans and teammates alike paying tribute to the departing icon. While the selfie incident provided a slightly awkward end to his time on the pitch, it remains a footnote to a career defined by unparalleled brilliance and dedication to his national team.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 07, 2026 11:10 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).