Lionel Messi is set to make his final appearance for Argentina on Tuesday when the world champions face Benin in a farewell friendly at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.
The 39-year-old captain will bring an extraordinary international career to a close in front of about 85,000 supporters, with several members of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad expected to join him for the emotional occasion.
Messi leaves the national team as Argentina’s most-capped player and all-time leading scorer, having recorded 125 goals and 68 assists in 207 appearances.
His international achievements include the 2022 FIFA World Cup, two Copa America titles and the Finalissima. His departure also signals the beginning of a new chapter for an Argentina side preparing to build its future around a younger generation.
Several of Messi’s former teammates from the World Cup triumph in Qatar, including Angel Di Maria, are expected to be present for the farewell. Di Maria ended his international career in 2024.
Messi made his Argentina debut in 2005, beginning a journey that would eventually see him become one of the most influential figures in the country’s football history.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni described the occasion as a special moment for the team and supporters, saying the focus would be on enjoying Messi’s final game in the national colours.
The national team has already demonstrated that it can compete without its long-time captain. Argentina defeated Bolivia 4-0 before recording a 7-0 victory over Burkina Faso, with emerging talents such as Nico Paz, Jose Manuel Lopez, Franco Mastantuono and Gianluca Prestianni making their mark.
Scaloni acknowledged that replacing Messi will be a major challenge but said the squad would collectively work to fill the gap left by the legendary forward.
Defender Cristian Romero is expected to become the new captain, while Emiliano Martinez and Lautaro Martinez are also among the leading candidates in the leadership group.
The farewell match will also provide an opportunity to honour other experienced players, including Nicolas Otamendi, Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso, whose international futures remain uncertain.
One of the biggest questions surrounding Argentina after Messi’s departure is who will inherit his famous number 10 shirt.
Scaloni has confirmed that the shirt will remain untouched until Messi’s farewell match is completed, leaving its future to be decided after the emotional send-off.
Tuesday’s encounter with Benin will therefore mark more than just another international friendly. It will be the closing chapter of Messi’s remarkable Argentina journey and the beginning of a new era for the reigning world champions.
