Messi Named in Argentina Squad for Farewell Friendly Against Benin

Lionel Messi is set to bid an emotional farewell to international football after being named in Argentina's squad for an October friendly against Benin. The 39-year-old announced his retirement from national duty in August, following Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. The match, scheduled for 6 October at River Plate's Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, will honour his remarkable career.

Messi leaves as Argentina's most capped player and all-time leading scorer, with 125 goals in 207 appearances. An eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, he captained La Albiceleste to World Cup glory in 2022. Argentine FA president Claudio Tapia praised Messi as 'the best player in the world' and 'the symbol of our national team', insisting he deserves a farewell 'he truly deserves'.

The friendly will also pay tribute to Argentina's 2022 World Cup-winning squad, who have been invited to attend. Tapia described the occasion as 'unforgettable'. The match comes after Argentina served a two-match home stadium sanction, reduced from a 50% capacity penalty, for breaches during the World Cup, including a political banner and discriminatory chants.

Midfielders Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina will be absent, serving 10-game and seven-match suspensions respectively for their roles in post-final clashes. As Messi prepares to say goodbye, fans will flock to the Monumental to witness the final chapter of a legendary international career that has defined an era.