In an emotional display, the Argentine national team paused play during their friendly match against Benin on Wednesday, October 6, 2026, to honor Lionel Messi in his final international appearance. The match stopped at the 10th minute, a nod to Messi's iconic jersey number 10, which he has worn for years with the Argentine team. Players and fans alike stood to pay tribute to the soccer legend, applauding him in a heartfelt moment.
Messi, visibly moved by the gesture, returned the appreciation, exchanging greetings with the fans amidst loud cheers. This moment was particularly poignant given the approaching end of his international career with Argentina. Earlier, Messi was seen getting emotional before the match, tearing up during the Argentine national anthem, with his family in attendance for this farewell occasion.
The emotional scene was not limited to Messi, as several Argentine players and even the team's coach, Lionel Scaloni, were seen struggling to hold back tears before the game began. The match against Benin transformed into a celebration of Messi's illustrious international career, which has been marked by significant achievements, including winning the 2022 World Cup and two Copa America titles.
The tribute at the 10th minute was a highlight of the evening, showcasing the respect and admiration Messi has garnered throughout his career. His contributions to Argentine soccer have left a lasting legacy, and such moments underscore his impact on and off the field. The event was a testament to Messi's influence and popularity, extending beyond the soccer community.
Messi's relationship with the number 10 jersey has been symbolic of his journey with the Argentine national team. The pause in play allowed fans and players to reflect on his contributions and the era he has represented. As Messi moves forward, his legacy within Argentine soccer is cemented, with moments like these serving as reminders of his dedication and achievements.
The friendly match against Benin, while intended as a competitive game, became a secondary focus to the celebration of Messi's career. The Argentine team's victory in such matches and Messi's performance have been under scrutiny, but on this occasion, the focus was solely on honoring a legend. The event encapsulated the broader impact of Messi's career on his team, fans, and the sport.
As Messi steps back from international soccer, the memories of his career, including moments of triumph and tributes like the one during the Benin match, will remain significant. His influence on Argentine soccer and his status as a global soccer icon ensure that his legacy endures. The farewell gesture during the match against Benin will be remembered as a heartfelt acknowledgment of his contributions to the sport.
Key points
- The Argentine team paused play at the 10th minute to honor Lionel Messi in his final international match.
