On Tuesday, the soccer community will experience a poignant farewell as Lionel Messi, the iconic Argentine player, takes to the field for his final match with the national team. This significant event will occur at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires and will feature members of the Argentine squad that triumphed in the 2022 Qatar World Cup and faced Spain in the recent 2026 World Cup final. After the heartbreaking loss in July, Messi declared his retirement from international duty on August 31, shortly after the passing of his father, Jorge.
Argentina will compete against Benin in a friendly match dedicated to Messi. Coach Lionel Scaloni has summoned all the players who played alongside Messi in the World Cup, although some, like Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina, will not be able to attend due to restrictions from their club, AS Roma. The club issued a statement emphasizing its respect for Messi and the importance of the occasion, despite the decision being influenced by logistical issues surrounding upcoming matches.
How to watch Argentina vs. Benin
Date: Tuesday, October 6 | Time: 7 p.m. ET
Location: Estadio Monumental – Buenos Aires, Argentina
Live stream: ViX
Odds: Argentina -20000; Draw +3000; Benin +6000
Messi’s Announcement
In an emotional letter shared on social media, Messi revealed his retirement from the national team after winning one World Cup and two Copa Americas. He expressed the bittersweet nature of his decision, stating, “This is one that hurts me a lot…I will always love being part of the national team.” Messi thanked fans, family, and teammates for their unwavering support throughout his remarkable journey.
Fan Take: Messi’s farewell is a pivotal moment in soccer history, as it marks the end of an era for one of the sport’s greatest icons. For fans, this event not only evokes nostalgia but also resonates with the future of soccer, prompting conversations about the next generation of players who will carry the torch he has held so brightly.
Source: www.cbssports.com
