Argentina Football Honors Messi with 10th Minute Tribute

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has announced that all football matches across Argentina will pause in the 10th minute this weekend to honor Lionel Messi, whose international career has concluded. This tribute is significant as it corresponds with the No. 10 shirt that Messi famously wore for over two decades with the national team.

The AFA's directive includes not only the men's top flight but also extends to men's and women's competitions, futsal, and beach soccer. Referees have been instructed to halt matches at the 10-minute mark, allowing players, officials, and supporters to participate in a minute of applause.

This nationwide tribute follows a similar event during a Copa Argentina match between Vélez Sarsfield and Boca Juniors, where referee Sebastián Zunino stopped the game at the 10-minute mark for applause. Stadiums equipped with video screens will also display a special tribute video before matches.