Lionel Messi will make his final appearance for Argentina on Tuesday in a friendly against Benin at the Estadio Monumental, bringing an end to more than two decades with the national team.
The 39-year-old will hand over the captain’s armband for the last time in front of an expected crowd of 85,000, joined by several teammates from the 2022 World Cup-winning squad and members of the country’s emerging generation.
Messi bows out as Argentina’s record appearance-maker and leading scorer with 125 goals in 207 matches, as well as a record 68 assists. His international career also includes a World Cup title, two Copa America trophies and the Finalissima.
His retirement follows Argentina’s World Cup final defeat to Spain in July. “I gave it my all; I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are great young players coming up who deserve their chance,” Messi said when announcing his decision in August.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni described the occasion as historic. “It’s going to be an unforgettable day for everyone. Everyone wants to be at this match, and now it’s just about enjoying it,” he said.
Scaloni added that the squad would work collectively to fill the gap left by Messi. “Collectively, we will try to fill the void left by Leo,” he said. The coach is also saying goodbye to vice-captain Nicolas Otamendi on Tuesday.
Cristian Romero is expected to inherit the captaincy. Other key figures from the 2022 squad, including Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez, are set to form the core of the new era.
Argentina have already begun the transition without Messi, beating Bolivia 4-0 and Burkina Faso 7-0 in recent matches. Scaloni said the iconic number 10 shirt would not be reassigned until after Tuesday’s game.
Messi remains under contract with Inter Miami until 2028, though he has indicated he may retire from club football earlier following the recent death of his father.
