New Delhi, Oct. 7 -- Lionel Messi's Argentina career began in 2005 with a red card after just 47 seconds on the pitch. Twenty-one years later, it ended with a goal, two assists and an emotional farewell in front of more than 85,000 supporters against Benin at Buenos Aires' Estadio Monumental.

The contrast between the two nights captures the extraordinary arc of Messi's international journey.

On 17 August 2005, an 18-year-old Messi made his senior Argentina debut against Hungary in Budapest. He entered the game as a second-half substitute under coach Jose Pekerman, but his first appearance lasted only moments.

Messi was sent off after an altercation with Hungary defender Vilmos Vanczak, leaving the teenager devastated after what was sup...