Lionel Messi's Farewell To Argentina: A Look At The GOAT's Historic World Cup Career

The time has come for Lionel Messi to don his Argentina jersey for one last time. The greatest of all time announced on Aug. 31 that he would retire from international play, culminating a 22-year career with Argentina that included a World Cup title. Across six World Cup appearances, Messi has led Argentina to the quarterfinals or better five times and reached the final three times. His résumé includes six World Cup appearances, 34 matches, 21 goals, 12 assists, and countless records, many of which he extended during his historic tournament this summer. His legacy on the tournament’s biggest stage is unlike anything the sport has ever seen. Argentina will face Benin in an international friendly in Buenos Aires at 7 p.m. ET. In honor of Messi's final match with Argentina, let’s look back at his remarkable World Cup journey, starting with his all-time tournament records, then revisiting each of his six appearances on soccer's biggest stage. This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.