{
  "id": 7636695,
  "title": "Messi set for 'one last dance' with Argentina in international friendly match",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/15/messi-set-for-one-last-dance-with-argentina-in-international-friendly",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-15T21:12:13.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Buenos Aires Times",
    "slug": "buenos-aires-times",
    "url": "https://www.batimes.com.ar/news/sports/messi-set-for-one-last-dance-with-argentina-in-international-friendly-match.phtml"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina's squad for a friendly match against Benin on October 6, marking what is expected to be his final appearance for his country. The 39-year-old captain, who announced his international retirement last month, will receive a deserved send-off in Argentina, according to Argentine Football Association (AFA) president Claudio Chiqui Tapia. Speaking in a video, Tapia stated that coach Lionel Scaloni had included Messi in the squad so that he can enjoy the send-off he truly deserves as the world's best player and the nation's icon. The match will take place at the Monumental Stadium against Benin, with the world champions in attendance on the day of the farewell performance.",
  "summary": "AFA chief Claudio 'Chiqui' Tapia says 39-year-old Lionel Messi has been called up for match against Benin next month \"so that he can have the farewell he truly deserves... here in Argentina.\" Leer más",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}