Buenos Aires. Lionel Messi, one of the greatest football players of all time, has announced his retirement from international football. With this his 21 year long international journey for Argentina came to an end. During this period, Messi achieved many such records and achievements which include him in the list of the greatest players in football history.
Let's take a look at the key statistics of Messi's international career…
Won the World Cup once
Under the captaincy of Messi, Argentina won the World Cup title in Qatar in 2022. In his international career, Argentina's team reached the World Cup finals twice. In 2014 the team had to face defeat from Germany and in 2026 against Spain.
Took part in 6 World Cups
Messi participated in six World Cups in his career (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026). This number is equal to that of his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo.
21 goals in the World Cup
Messi scored a total of 21 goals in six World Cups. In this matter, he is second after France's Kylian Mbappe. Mbappé has scored 22 goals in three World Cups.
Retired at the age of 39
Messi decided to retire from international football at the age of 39. He made his international debut for Argentina in an August 2005 friendly match against Hungary. In his debut match, he could stay on the field for only about a minute and was sent off the field for elbowing an opponent player.
125 international goals
Messi has scored 125 international goals for Argentina. This is more than double the goals scored by any other Argentinian player. Before him, this record was in the name of Gabriel Batistuta, who had scored 54 goals in 78 matches between 1991 and 2002.
The record for scoring the most goals in men's international football is held by Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, who has scored 146 goals. Messi is second after him with 125 goals.
207 international matches
Messi played a total of 207 international matches for Argentina. However, he is at second place in terms of playing most international matches. Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo has played 233 international matches.
Messi's international journey was filled with World Cup titles, record goals and historic achievements. Now, with his journey in Argentina's jersey coming to an end, discussions have started about the end of an era in football.
Also read: This player will now take over the captaincy of Ranji Trophy in Mumbai in place of Shardul Thakur. Great record of 774 runs worked