Messi's Farewell Match Scheduled Against Benin on October 6

Lionel Messi has been included in Argentina’s squad for a farewell match against Benin, scheduled for October 6 at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. This match will signify the conclusion of Messi's international career, as confirmed by Argentina Football Association president Claudio Tapia.

Tapia stated that this event would provide Messi, the captain of the national team, with a deserved farewell in front of his home fans. Messi, who is 39 years old, had previously announced his retirement from the Argentina national team on August 31, following a loss to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.

Over his illustrious career, Messi has led Argentina to victories in the 2021 Copa America, the 2022 World Cup, and the 2024 Copa America, despite earlier defeats in the 2014 World Cup final and Copa America finals in 2015 and 2016. The farewell match against Benin will be preceded by fixtures against Bolivia on September 30 and Burkina Faso on October 3.