Lionel Messi's 10 best Argentina goals: From World Cup heroics to stunning free kicks

Lionel Messi closed his international career for Argentina on August 31, following the aftermath of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The all-time leading figure finished with 207 appearances and 125 goals, capping a trophy-rich spell that included the 2022 World Cup, two Copa America titles, and the 2022 Finalissima. Sporting News compiled his 10 best Argentina goals, spanning World Cup qualifying heroics, high-pressure international friendlies, and landmark tournament moments. The list highlights a 2012 opener vs. Chile from CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying, where Messi’s first touch set up a calm finish, and a 2010 winner vs. Brazil in a friendly in which he broke a scoreless game in the 92nd minute. The ranking also includes goals such as Argentina’s 2022 opener vs. Mexico, after an opening loss to Saudi Arabia. The article positions the end of his tenure as a historic milestone for the national team.