Messi’s farewell match vs Benin set for Oct 6 in Buenos Aires
Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina’s squad for a friendly against Benin on October 6, 2026, a match that will serve as his farewell appearance after announcing his international retirement last month. The 39-year-old, who is Argentina’s all-time record scorer with 125 goals, will make his 208th and final national team appearance at River Plate’s Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. Argentine FA president Claudio Tapia said the match honors Messi, inviting all 2022 World Cup winners to join him for the occasion. Argentina’s preparatory friendlies include a September 30 match against Bolivia in Córdoba and an October 3 game versus Burkina Faso in Buenos Aires. FIFA recently ordered Argentina to play their next home match with 50% capacity due to disciplinary breaches linked to a Falklands banner shown after their World Cup semi‑final win over England. Suspensions from that incident include a 10‑match ban for Leandro Paredes, seven games for Nahuel Molina, and one for Thiago Almada. For Nigerian football fans, Messi’s retirement marks the end of an era that inspired a generation worldwide, offering a moment to reflect on how global legends shape local aspirations for the sport.
Will you watch Messi's final game to celebrate a legend, or use the moment to inspire youth football in your community?