Messi speaks of 'painful' retirement after Argentina farewell

BUENOS AIRES: Lionel Messi signed off from international football on Tuesday, telling Argentina fans retirement from the national team was "deeply painful."

Messi, 39, scored a goal and provided two assists as his 208th and final international game ended with a 3-0 win over Benin.

"It was a source of great pride for me to wear this jersey," Messi told fans in an address after the final whistle at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.

"I can only express my gratitude... not coming back anymore will be deeply painful," said the veteran, who will continue to play club football for Inter Miami.-AFP