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MESSI’S FINAL DANCE! Argentina Legend Set for Emotional Farewell Against Benin

BUENOS AIRES — Lionel Messi is preparing to say goodbye to the Argentina national team after more than two decades in the famous blue-and-white shirt.

The 39-year-old captain will make his scheduled final appearance against Benin on October 6 at Buenos Aires' Monumental Stadium. The match is expected to be his 208th international appearance.

Messi returned to Argentina on Friday, arriving in Rosario with his family ahead of the farewell. The Argentina Football Association has planned a special tribute for its record goalscorer and appearance holder.

Argentina are heading into the occasion in style. Without Messi, they thrashed Burkina Faso 7–0 at the Monumental on Saturday, giving Lionel Scaloni's side a strong final tune-up before Messi's farewell.

Messi has scored 125 goals for Argentina and helped the country win the 2022 World Cup, Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, and Olympic gold in 2008.

Now, the football world awaits one final appearance from Argentina's iconic No. 10.

Up nextMLB· 16h ago

Messick's stuff plays in October, even if Game 1 result doesn't