Benin's national team goalkeeper, Marcel Dandjinou, has expressed his excitement about facing Lionel Messi in an upcoming friendly match against Argentina. The match, scheduled for October 7, will be Messi's last international game. Dandjinou mentioned that it's a special occasion, not just a regular match, and he feels honored to play against one of his childhood idols.
Dandjinou emphasized that despite the significance of the match for Messi, Benin's team will not forget their primary objective: to defend their country's colors. He stated that they are not there for tourism but to compete and potentially cause an upset against the Argentine team. The goalkeeper described the experience of playing against Messi as a dream come true.
The Benin vs. Argentina friendly is set to take place at the Estadio Monumental in Argentina. Dandjinou acknowledged Messi's stature in the football world, referring to him as one of the "kings of football." He mentioned that he has grown up watching Messi play and that it will be surreal to share the same pitch with him.
When asked if he would allow Messi to score a goal, Dandjinou was clear: his job as a goalkeeper is to prevent goals, regardless of the opponent. He expressed his determination to make a save, even if it means stopping Messi from scoring in the final minutes of the game or from a penalty kick.
Lionel Messi announced his international retirement after Argentina's loss in the 2026 World Cup final. However, he revealed this information earlier than planned due to the recent passing of his father. Messi's international career spanned over 20 years, during which he played 207 matches and scored 125 goals for Argentina.
Throughout his international career, Messi led Argentina to several notable victories, including the 2022 World Cup title and two Copa America championships in 2021 and 2024. The Argentine Football Association plans to honor Messi with a special ceremony on October 7, inviting him and his family, as well as other World Cup-winning teammates.
The friendly match between Benin and Argentina will serve as a celebration of Messi's illustrious international career. While Dandjinou and his teammates are eager to make the most of this experience, they are also focused on making a positive impression and potentially causing an upset against the Argentine team.
Key points
- Benin goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou is eager to face Lionel Messi in the upcoming friendly match against Argentina.
- The match will be Messi's last international game, and the Argentine Football Association plans to honor him with a special ceremony.
- Dandjinou emphasized that his team will not gift Messi a goal and will compete to the best of their abilities.
