Messi in Argentina squad for farewell friendly

Argentina has included Lionel Messi in their squad for an upcoming friendly match against Benin in October, marking the forward's farewell to international football. The 39-year-old announced his retirement from Argentina duty in August, following their loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, and after his father's death. Messi, who captained Argentina during their 2022 World Cup victory, expressed deep sorrow over his decision to end his international career.

Messi, an eight-time Ballon d'Or winner and Inter Miami star, is Argentina's top scorer with 125 goals in 207 appearances.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) president, Claudio Tapia, announced the inclusion of Messi, calling it a "farewell he truly deserves" on October 6th in Buenos Aires at the Estadio Monumental with a 85,000 capacity. Argentina's 2022 World Cup champions will be invited to the match, which Tapia described as "unforgettable".

The AFA had previously sanctioned Argentina for breaches of the FIFA disciplinary code during the World Cup, requiring them to play their next two home matches with 50% capacity due to team misconduct, non-sporting demonstrations, and discriminatory chants. Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina are not expected to play, having received respective 10-game and seven-match suspensions for their involvement in on-field clashes after the World Cup final defeat to Spain.