Lionel Messi has concluded his illustrious international career with Argentina after more than two decades and over 200 appearances, marking the end of an era following the team's recent defeat in the 2024 Copa America final.

• Messi's international career spanned 207 matches and resulted in 125 goals for Argentina.
• Key defining moments include an inauspicious start with a red card in 2005, reaching the 2014 World Cup final, a period of deep disappointment including a 2016 Copa America final loss where he briefly retired, and finally achieving major titles with the 2021 Copa America and the 2022 World Cup.
• The article highlights six defining moments of his journey, from his debut to his final match, culminating in a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance this year.