Lisandro Martinez has described Lionel Messi as “the greatest athlete in history” in a heartwarming tribute after the forward made his final international appearance for Argentina.
Messi ended his international career with a 3-0 victory over Benin in Buenos Aires on Tuesday, winning his 208th cap and scoring the final goal of an extraordinary career with the national team.
Martinez came on shortly after half-time for Nicolas Otamendi, making it the 30th time he had played alongside Messi for Argentina. The Manchester United defender was also part of the squad that won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
After the match, Martinez posted a video of Messi on the Argentina team bus on Instagram, alongside footage of the pair during their time together with the national team.
“What a privilege it was to have shared with the greatest athlete in history,” Martinez wrote. “We’re losing the greatest, we’re going to miss you for the rest of our lives Leo.”
He added: “I love you with all my heart!!!”
Messi’s farewell was marked by a standing ovation in the 10th minute, a tribute to his famous No 10 shirt. The 39-year-old then scored from the penalty spot, sending his international record to 126 goals.
Otamendi and Nico Paz were also on the scoresheet as Argentina completed the 3-0 win over Benin.
