Lionel Messi Named in Argentina Squad for Farewell Match Against Benin

Posted : 16 September 2026

Lionel Messi has been included in Argentina’s squad for the October 6 friendly against Benin in Buenos Aires, which is set to mark his final appearance for the national team.

The 39-year-old announced his retirement from international football last month after more than two decades representing Argentina. His international career included winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup and Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024.

Argentina Football Association president Claudio Tapia confirmed that Messi had been invited to receive a farewell in front of supporters at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. Tapia has also invited members of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad to attend the occasion with Messi and their families.

The match against Benin will conclude Argentina’s three-game friendly schedule. Lionel Scaloni’s side will first face Bolivia in Cordoba on September 30 before meeting Burkina Faso in Buenos Aires on October 3.

Messi is expected to make his 208th appearance for Argentina against Benin. He remains the country’s record goalscorer, with 125 goals to his name, while his final international appearance will bring an end to a long career with the national team.

Messi’s decision to retire came after a difficult period personally and professionally. Following the death of his father, Jorge, he spoke about having serious doubts over how much longer he wanted to continue playing football.

In announcing his international retirement, Messi said the decision was painful but that he believed it was the appropriate moment to step away from Argentina duty.

The farewell match will also come against the backdrop of disciplinary issues involving several Argentina players. FIFA has imposed suspensions following incidents surrounding the team’s 2026 World Cup final against Spain, with players including Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina and Thiago Almada affected.

Argentina are also facing a FIFA stadium-capacity sanction, with their next home fixture subject to a reduced attendance following a disciplinary ruling. The October friendlies will form the national team’s first matches since the 2026 World Cup.

Messi’s international career has already produced several records and major titles, and the October 6 meeting with Benin is now scheduled to provide his final opportunity to wear the Argentina shirt in front of his home supporters.

Lionel Messi Named in Argentina Squad for Farewell Match Against Benin

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