Lionel Messi returns to Argentina ahead of emotional farewell match with national team
Lionel Messi made his way back to Argentina on Friday in preparation for an emotionally charged farewell match with his national team. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) organized the game, aiming to honor Messi with a fitting send-off for his illustrious career.
Messi is scheduled to take part in a friendly match against Benin in Buenos Aires on Tuesday, marking his final appearance for the team he guided to World Cup glory in 2022. The AFA expressed their intention to make the match special by ensuring Messi receives the homecoming he truly deserves.
Messi, who declared his international retirement on August 31, flew into Buenos Aires from Miami on a private jet, landing in his hometown of Rosario, located about 190 miles north of the capital. Several other 2022 World Cup champions have been invited to attend the festivities. However, Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina were unable to make it due to Roma's refusal to release them.
This farewell match signifies the end of Messi's 21-year international career for the Albiceleste, a legacy adorned with 125 goals and participation in two more World Cup finals. Argentina secured a victory over Bolivia with a score of 4-0 on Wednesday, while Burkina Faso will face Argentina in their subsequent game on Saturday.
Written by urgent.news from Winnipeg Free Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
