The conclusion of his tenure follows a final
From a Turbulent Debut to Global Heartbreak
Messi’s international path began in 2005 as an 18-year-old, though his debut against Hungary lasted only 90 seconds before he was sent off. He quickly moved past that setback, scoring his first World Cup goal a year later during a 6-0 win over Serbia and Montenegro in Germany. Despite his individual brilliance, the following years were marked by frustration, including quarter-final exits in 2006 and 2010, and a painful loss to Germany in the 2014 World Cup final.
The pressure mounted as Argentina suffered consecutive defeats in the 2015 and 2016
A Resurgent Chapter and Ultimate Triumph
Under the guidance of coach Lionel Scaloni, who took charge in 2018, Argentina underwent a significant transformation. The drought finally ended at the 2021 Copa America, where a 1-0 victory over Brazil secured Argentina’s first major title in 28 years. This momentum carried into the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where a 35-year-old Messi delivered a career-defining performance, scoring seven goals and providing three assists to help Argentina claim their third world title.
Messi’s final chapter included a 2024 Copa America victory and a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance. By the time he walked away, he had amassed 207 caps and 125 goals. He also retired as the player with the most World Cup appearances in history, totaling 34, and as one of only two players to feature in three World Cup finals. His career remains a testament to persistence, having evolved from a young talent seeking his footing to a world champion who ultimately defined an era of Argentine football.
