Messi set for Argentina farewell against Benin

Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina’s squad for a friendly against Benin on October 6, which will serve as his farewell appearance for the national team.

The 39-year-old announced his international retirement last month after a two-decade career with Argentina that included winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 and 2024 Copa América titles.

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The match will be played at River Plate’s Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, with Argentina Football Association president Claudio Tapia saying Messi will receive the farewell he deserves.

Tapia has also invited all members of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad and their families to attend the occasion.

Messi is expected to make his 208th and final appearance for Argentina against Benin. He is the country’s all-time leading scorer with 125 goals.

Argentina will also face Bolivia on September 30 in Córdoba and Burkina Faso on October 3 in Buenos Aires before Messi’s farewell match against Benin.

Messi’s international career has included more than two decades with Argentina, culminating in the 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar.