Argentine football legend Lionel Messi will make his final appearance for the national team when they face Benin in an international friendly on October 6. The match, to be held at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, marks the end of one of the greatest international careers in football history. Messi, 39, announced his decision to retire from international football in August, and this fixture provides an opportunity for Argentine supporters to celebrate their captain.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed Messi's farewell match, revealing that he personally pushed for the fixture to be held during the current international window. Scaloni expressed his desire to be present when Messi takes his final bow, stating that a player like Messi deserves a special farewell. The coach made an effort to ensure Messi could play in this match, as he may not be available later.
Scaloni praised Messi's effort to return and say goodbye to the supporters who have followed his career. Messi has made a significant contribution to Argentine football, and his farewell match is expected to be a special occasion. The coach believes that now is the time for Messi to feel the love from his fans, as the magic of the moment may not be the same later.
Messi heads into his final Argentina appearance as the country's all-time leading scorer, with 125 international goals to his name. Scaloni, who has worked closely with Messi during Argentina's recent success, considers coaching the legendary forward a career-defining experience. He described it as the ultimate experience and a dream come true.
Scaloni also praised Messi's influence beyond his performances on the pitch. He noted that it's rare for a player like Messi to come along, not just because of his skills but also because of everything he conveys off the pitch. Scaloni encouraged fans to enjoy this special moment.
Before Messi's farewell, Argentina has two other fixtures lined up during the international window. They will travel to Córdoba to face Bolivia on September 30 and host Burkina Faso on October 3. These matches are part of Argentina's transition into a new era following the international retirements of Messi and veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi.
For Argentine fans, the October 6 meeting with Benin will be the main attraction as Messi prepares to bring down the curtain on his extraordinary international career. Scaloni expressed his admiration for Messi, stating that there will never be anyone like him. The farewell match is expected to be a fitting tribute to Messi's remarkable career.
Key points
- Lionel Messi to make final appearance for Argentina in international friendly against Benin on October 6
- Messi to wear Argentina's famous blue-and-white shirt for the last time at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires
- Head coach Lionel Scaloni personally pushed for the farewell match to be held during the current international window
