Lionel Messi’s Wife Antonela Roccuzzo Pays Emotional Farewell Tribute
Antonela Roccuzzo shared a touching tribute to Lionel Messi following his emotional international farewell match for Argentina against Benin on October 6, 2026. The 39-year-old superstar scored a goal and provided two assists in the 3-0 victory at Estadio Monumental, bringing his illustrious 21-year international career to a close.
Buenos Aires witnessed a night etched in football history as Lionel Messi donned the Albiceleste jersey for the final time in his international career on Tuesday, October 6, 2026. The emotional occasion, a 3-0 friendly victory over Benin, saw his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, share a poignant message, encapsulating the sentiment of a nation bidding farewell to its greatest icon. Lionel Messi Calls Argentina Farewell His ‘Saddest Day’ After Final Match Against Benin.
'There are nights that explain an entire life. And last night was one of those,' Roccuzzo posted on Instagram, accompanying a picture of Messi. 'How beautiful it was to see you surrounded by so much love, with so many people thanking you and giving back everything you gave them for so many years. You earned that love. You built it through the person you are, your humility, your commitment, and the heart you always gave for this shirt.'
Lionel Messi Wife Posts Emotional Message
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A Fitting Farewell Performance
Playing in his record-extending 208th international match at the packed Estadio Monumental, the 39-year-old superstar delivered a performance befitting his legendary status. Messi was directly involved in all three of Argentina's goals, scoring his 126th international goal from the penalty spot in the 71st minute. Earlier, he provided assists for Nicolás Otamendi in the 48th minute and Nico Paz in the 61st minute, orchestrating a dominant 3-0 victory against Benin.
The atmosphere at the Estadio Monumental, filled with 85,000 adoring fans, was electric, with supporters showering Messi with tributes throughout the evening. Messi himself was visibly moved, acknowledging the crowd's adoration in what he described as "the saddest day of my career" in his post-match speech.
Antonela Roccuzzo's Heartfelt Words
Roccuzzo's message resonated deeply with fans worldwide, highlighting not just Messi's on-field brilliance but also his character. "I'm so proud to have walked this journey by your side, and so emotional to see you close such an enormous chapter of your life this way. Thank you for teaching us so much! We love you Always with you," she concluded. This tribute followed Messi's announcement on August 31, 2026, of his decision to retire from international football, a decision that came after Argentina's World Cup final defeat to Spain on July 19, 2026. Lionel Messi’s Final International Match: Neymar Pens Emotional Farewell Message for Argentina Icon.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Opponent | Benin |
| Score | Argentina 3-0 Benin |
| Messi's Goals | 1 (penalty, 71') |
| Messi's Assists | 2 (Otamendi 48', Paz 61') |
| Messi's Age | 39 (on match day) |
| International Caps | 208 |
| International Goals | 126 |
What's Next for the Maestro
While his international journey with Argentina has concluded, Messi's club career continues. He remains under contract with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS) until the end of the 2028 season, where he is expected to lead the team in the final stages of their 2026 MLS regular season.
The farewell match against Benin was not just a game; it was a celebration of a remarkable career that saw Messi lift the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the 2021 and 2024 Copa América titles, and leave an indelible mark on the sport. The outpouring of love from his wife, teammates, and millions of fans underscores the profound impact Lionel Messi has had, both as a player and as a person, cementing his legacy as one of football's true greats.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 08, 2026 09:58 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
