The Argentina Football Association (AFA) confirmed that the legendary forward will feature in a farewell match against Benin, scheduled to take place in Buenos Aires on October 6. The decision follows discussions between the player and national team head coach
A Final Farewell in Buenos Aires
Messi’s last competitive outing for La Albiceleste occurred during the 2026 World Cup final, where Argentina suffered a defeat against Spain. While that result did not provide the storybook ending many had hoped for, the upcoming friendly offers a chance for a celebratory send-off. The AFA has extended invitations to the entire squad that secured the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar, ensuring that the 2022 champions and their families can join Messi on the pitch for the occasion.
In an official statement, the AFA expressed their desire to honour the player they described as the world's best and the icon of their national team. The association noted that Messi has accepted the invitation, setting the stage for what is being billed as an unforgettable event for Argentine football fans.
Upcoming International Schedule
The match against Benin marks the conclusion of a three-game home friendly series for Argentina. The team is set to begin their post-World Cup schedule with a fixture against Bolivia in Cordoba on September 30. This will be followed by a match against Burkina Faso on October 3, hosted at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.
The final game of the series on October 6 will serve as the focal point of the celebrations, as the nation prepares to watch their captain represent the country one last time. The inclusion of the 2022 world champions alongside Messi is intended to create a fitting tribute to a career that has defined a generation of Argentine football.
