In an Instagram post featuring a handwritten note in Spanish, Messi confirmed on Monday that his final match for Argentina was the 2026 World Cup final against Spain, which ended in defeat, and announced his retirement from international football at the age of 39, according to ESPN.
“For the upcoming matchday across all men’s and women’s divisions and disciplines, matches will be paused in the 10th minute of the first half for a minute of applause in recognition of Lionel Messi’s career with the Argentina national team,” the AFA announced on Wednesday.
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The statement also said that “stadiums equipped with video boards must play a tribute video before kickoff,” referring to the montage shared on the AFA’s social media channels following Messi’s retirement announcement.
Messi made his senior international debut in 2005 and went on to become Argentina’s all-time leading scorer with 125 goals. He represented the country at six World Cups and finally lifted the trophy in 2022. He also holds the tournament records for the most matches played, with 34 appearances, and the most victories, with 23 wins.
“I gave it my all; I have nothing left to give,” Messi wrote on Instagram on Monday. “It was a decision that hurt — and still hurts deep down — but I understand that the time has come.”
Messi finally won the World Cup with Argentina in 2022, helping his country secure its first world title in 36 years and its third overall.
