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Messi set for Argentina farewell in Benin friendly

The 39-year-old said in August he was retiring from Argentina duty after a two-decade international career that included winning the 2022 World Cup.

Messi set for Argentina farewell in Benin friendly

Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina's squad for an upcoming friendly match against Benin on October 6, marking his farewell appearance after announcing his international retirement. The 39-year-old Argentine legend played his 208th and final match for the national team, a record for all-time goals scored. Messi's retirement follows a successful two-decade career, including World Cup and Copa America triumphs in 2022 and 2024.

Argentina FA president Claudio Tapia praised Messi, calling him the best player in the world and the symbol of the national team. The match will be held at River Plate's Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. Argentina will play three friendlies ahead of the Benin match, against Bolivia on September 30, and Burkina Faso on October 3. FIFA has imposed a capacity reduction for Argentina's next home match due to disciplinary breaches.

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