Lionel Messi Named in Argentina Squad for October Farewell Match Against Benin

 

Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina’s squad for an emotional international farewell against Benin on October 6, 2026. The friendly will take place at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires and is expected to mark Messi’s final appearance in an Argentina shirt following his decision to retire from international football.

The Argentina captain announced his international retirement after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable 21-year journey with the national team. However, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has arranged one final opportunity for supporters to see the legendary forward represent his country on home soil.

Messi Set for Argentina Farewell Against Benin

Messi has been included in Argentina’s squad for the October international window, but his involvement is specifically planned for the farewell fixture against Benin. FIFA confirmed that the match will be played on October 6 at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.

AFA president Claudio Tapia confirmed that Messi had accepted the invitation for the farewell appearance. The occasion is also expected to feature members of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad, adding further significance to the ceremony.

Argentina will first face Bolivia on September 30 in Córdoba before taking on Burkina Faso in Buenos Aires on October 3. Messi is not expected to feature in those two matches and will instead return for the final game against Benin.

Also Read:- Smriti Mandhana’s 18 International Centuries

Lionel Messi’s Incredible Argentina Career

Messi leaves international football with an extraordinary record. The 39-year-old is Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player, having scored 125 goals in 207 appearances for the national team.

His international career included several historic achievements. Messi captained Argentina to the 2022 FIFA World Cup title in Qatar, while also winning the Copa América in 2021 and 2024.

The forward also played a key role during Argentina’s 2026 World Cup campaign, scoring eight goals and providing four assists as the team reached the final. Argentina eventually lost 1-0 to Spain after extra time.

A Final Appearance for an Argentina Icon

The Argentina vs Benin friendly will provide Messi with an opportunity to say goodbye to supporters in Buenos Aires. After more than two decades of international football, his final appearance is expected to be a major occasion for Argentine football.

While the match is a farewell rather than a return to regular international duty, Messi’s inclusion ensures that his Argentina career will receive a memorable closing chapter. Fans will now eagerly await October 6 as the football world prepares to watch one of the sport’s most celebrated international careers reach its conclusion.

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