 He took part in the 1994 World Cup with Italy, where they reached the final, only to lose out to Brazil on penalties; Benarrivo was a key member of the starting line-up for the 1994 World Cup, also featuring in the final defeat, and demonstrating his tactical versatility as he alternated between playing on the right and the left flanks.During the tournament, he notably won a penalty in extra time during the round of 16 match against Nigeria, from which Roberto Baggio subsequently scored, sending the Italians to the quarter-finals.Benarrivo played with the national side until 1997, making his final appearance on 29 October, against Russia.