Argentina have included Lionel Messi in their squad for an October friendly against Benin, with the fixture expected to mark the forward’s final appearance for his country.
Messi confirmed his international retirement in August after Argentina lost to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. He had also been reflecting on his future in the sport following the death of his father, Jorge.
The 39-year-old, who led Argentina to victory at the 2022 World Cup, said leaving La Albiceleste was deeply painful but felt he had devoted everything he could to the national team.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or recipient, now playing for Inter Miami, holds Argentina’s records for both goals and appearances, with 125 goals from 207 matches.
Argentine FA president Claudio Tapia said the federation had chosen to invite Lionel Andres Messi, describing him as the world’s finest player, the national team’s icon and its captain, so he could receive a fitting farewell in Argentina on 6 October.
The match against Benin will take place at River Plate’s Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, a venue with room for 85,000 spectators.
Members of Argentina’s victorious 2022 World Cup squad have also been asked to attend the game, which Tapia expects to be a memorable event.
What do you feel about this post?
Like
Love
Happy
Haha
Sad
