Messi scores in his final match for Argentina

After seetting up Nicolas Otamendi and Nico Paz for the first two goals, Argentina's retiring talisman Lionel Messi stepped up an converted a spot-kick to give his side a 3-0 lead against Benin in a friendly match at the Monumental in Buenos Aires today.

The goal came in the 71st minute of the match. This was his 126th goal in an Argentina shirt, playing his 208th and final match. 

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Messi celebrates with Paz and Otamendi after the opening two goals. Photo: Reuters

Earlier, he set up both Otamendi (48) and Paz (61) for goals as the hosts came from a goalless draw in the first half by ramping up the pressure. 

The match ended in a 3-0 victory for Scaloni's men in what was the last time the great man from Rosario wore an Albiceleste shirt.