The match serves as a symbolic transition for the South American champions, with Messi expected to hand over the captain’s armband for the final time. A capacity crowd of 85,000 is anticipated to attend the fixture, which will feature many of the teammates who helped secure the 2022 FIFA World Cup title in Qatar, alongside members of the nation's emerging footballing generation.
A Legacy Defined by Trophies and Records
Messi departs the international stage as Argentina’s most capped player and all-time leading scorer. Over the course of 207 appearances, he has netted 125 goals and provided a record 68 assists. His international trophy cabinet is equally decorated, highlighted by the 2022 World Cup triumph, two Copa America titles, and the Finalissima. This final outing follows a difficult period for the veteran, who recently faced the loss of his father, Jorge, and experienced a challenging defeat to Spain in the World Cup final in New Jersey two and a half months ago.
The farewell match also marks the end of an era for other key figures. Vice-captain Nicolas Otamendi, 38, is set to join Messi in his final international appearance. Furthermore, midfielders Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso have been called up specifically for this fixture, fueling speculation that this could be their final representation for the national team. Head coach Lionel Scaloni, who successfully integrated the squad around his talismanic captain, will oversee the proceedings as the team prepares for a future without its long-standing leader.
Match Details and Viewing Information
The friendly against 93rd-ranked Benin is scheduled to kick off at 04:30 AM IST on Wednesday, October 7. While the match will not be broadcast on television in India, fans can access the event via the ZEE5 online platform. The squad for the occasion includes a mix of veterans and youth, with goalkeepers Emiliano Martínez, Juan Musso, Gerónimo Rulli, and Santiago Beltrán joined by a defensive unit featuring Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, and Nicolás Tagliafico. The attacking lineup, headlined by Messi, also includes Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez.
