Lionel Messi bids farewell as Harry Kane matches England record

Lionel Messi has brought his Argentina career to an end, prompting emotional tributes in the country’s press. His farewell closes the international chapter of a career that made him a central figure for the Albiceleste and left supporters mourning the departure of their long-time No. 10.

Messi’s final appearance came on October 7, 2026, in a friendly against Benin. Argentina won 3-0, with Messi scoring from the penalty spot and creating two further goals. Clarin marked the occasion with a plea for him to stay and a tribute linking him to the 46 million Argentines who followed his career. Olé focused on his tearful farewell and his pride at having represented Argentina, as well as his admission that the national team would be difficult to leave.

Harry Kane also took a place in the headlines after scoring twice for England in their fourth Nations League match. The goals took him to 91 for his country and helped him reach 125 appearances, level with Peter Shilton for England’s record number of caps. Kane is now far ahead of Wayne Rooney’s international tally of 53 goals, while English newspapers described the striker as a special player and the country’s greatest.