Lionel Messi to Play Farewell Match for Argentina Against Benin in Buenos Aires
Lionel Messi will bring the curtain down on his international career with a farewell friendly against Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, marking the dawn of a new era for the South American champions. The 39-year-old superstar will hand over the captain’s armband after more than two decades of service to the Albiceleste, concluding a record-breaking international run that includes a 2022 World Cup title.
The fixture on October 6 follows uncertainty over whether the forward would take the field one last time after initially announcing his international retirement in August. Argentine Football Association President Claudio Tapia confirmed that Messi accepted an invitation for the match, telling reporters that officials decided to invite the icon so he could receive a proper finale.
Claudio Tapia and Lionel Scaloni Announce Squad Inclusions
Messi was included in a 28-man squad assembled by coach Lionel Scaloni for a series of three home friendlies. The schedule opens with a match against Bolivia on September 30 at the Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium in Córdoba. That fixture is followed by a game against Burkina Faso at the Estadio Monumental on October 3, culminating in the farewell match against Benin on October 6.
Tapia stated that the association extended invitations to all members of the 2022 Qatar World Cup-winning squad and their families to witness what he termed the “last tango” of the world’s best player. Meanwhile, coach Lionel Scaloni enters the fixtures with his own future undecided, as his contract expires in December following the team’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the July 19 World Cup final in New Jersey.
Qatar World Cup Champions Reunite for the Final Swan Song
Eighty-five thousand spectators are expected to pack the Estadio Monumental to watch Messi’s international swansong alongside veterans from the Doha triumph.
Scaloni noted that everyone wants to be at the match to celebrate an unforgettable day for the squad and supporters.
New Generation Prepares to Inherit the Albiceleste Legacy
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and Lautaro Martinez round out the immediate leadership hierarchy for the squad moving forward.
Disciplinary Bans Impact Squad Depth After World Cup Final
Preparations for the friendlies face complications from disciplinary action issued by FIFA following a scuffle after Argentina’s World Cup final loss to Spain. Three players—Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, and Thiago Almada—received suspensions from world football’s governing body. Paredes received the heaviest penalty with a 10-match ban.
Officials have not yet announced who will take possession of Messi’s iconic number 10 shirt. Scaloni confirmed that the number will remain unassigned until after the farewell match concludes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Messi’s Farewell Match
When and where is Lionel Messi’s farewell match taking place?
The farewell match against Benin is scheduled for October 6 at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, preceded by friendlies against Bolivia on September 30 in Córdoba and Burkina Faso on October 3 in Buenos Aires.
What are Messi’s final career statistics with Argentina?
Messi retires as Argentina’s record appearance-maker and leading scorer, netting 125 goals in 207 games alongside a record 68 assists over a 21-year international career.
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