Lionel Messi has been called up by coach Lionel Scaloni for a farewell match against Benin, scheduled for October 6 in Buenos Aires. The call-up comes despite Messi's announcement at the end of August that he was retiring from international football at 39 years old. Messi had previously declared his retirement from his international career on August 31. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) announced on Tuesday its desire to honor its legend with a friendly match against Benin on October 6 at the Monumental de Buenos Aires. The fixture in the Argentine capital is set to honor the veteran forward, marking his final appearance for the national team.
Farewell Match Details
Lionel Messi is part of a 28-player squad selected by the Fédération argentine (AFA) for Argentina's upcoming three matches. The inclusion of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner in the squad signals a significant event for Argentine football fans. The schedule includes a match against Bolivia on September 30 in Cordoba. Following this, the team will play Burkina Faso on October 3 and Benin on October 6, both in Buenos Aires. These matches are against Bolivia on September 30 in Cordoba, and against Burkina Faso and Benin on October 3 and 6 in the capital. The farewell fixture against Benin is slated to be held at the 85,000-seat stadium of the club River Plate, known as Monumental de Buenos Aires. This specific venue, a prominent stadium in Argentina, has been chosen to host the momentous occasion. Messi will be formally recognized and honored during the October 6 match against Benin, marking a significant event for the national team and its supporters.
Context of Retirement
Lionel Messi's retirement announcement at the end of August came after the Albiceleste's defeat in the 2026 World Cup final. The decision also followed the death of his father, Jorge Messi, in early August. Messi is widely recognized as an eight-time Ballon d'Or winner and was a key player in Argentina's 2022 World Cup victory. His illustrious career with the national team has seen him achieve numerous accolades, culminating in the 2022 World Cup championship. The announcement of his international retirement at 39 years old, despite his continued high performance, sent ripples through the football world. The AFA's decision to organize a farewell match provides an opportunity for fans to pay tribute to one of the sport's greatest figures.
AFA's Tribute to a Legend
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) announced on Tuesday the plans for Lionel Messi's farewell. The AFA's announcement confirms its intention to provide a fitting send-off for the captain who led the nation to its third World Cup title. Messi had previously declared his retirement from his international career on August 31. To mark the occasion, all players who were part of Argentina's 2022 World Cup winning squad have been invited to participate in these farewell events. This collective invitation shows the importance of the entire championship-winning team in Messi's celebrated career and in the nation's football history. The AFA expressed its desire to create an unforgettable tribute for a player who has given so much to Argentine football.
Federation President's Statement
The Fédération argentine (AFA) announced its intention to honor Lionel Messi with a friendly match against Benin on October 6. The AFA stated that the game, scheduled to take place at the Monumental de Buenos Aires, is planned as a tribute to the Argentine legend. This match will be played in the 85,000-seat stadium of the club River Plate, ensuring a grand setting for the farewell. Messi will be formally recognized during the October 6 match against Benin, marking a significant event for the national team. The federation aims to provide a memorable celebration of Messi's contributions and legacy, allowing fans and the football community to express their gratitude and admiration for his unparalleled career.