Lionel Messi will make his final international appearance for the Argentina national football team on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, in a friendly match against Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, TUDN reported. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. Colombia time, with 85,000 spectators expected to fill South America’s largest stadium for the historic farewell.
Will Lionel Messi Start His Final Match for Argentina?
Lionel Messi is confirmed to feature in his farewell fixture after announcing his international retirement in August, writing that he felt emptied and ready to step aside for the next generation. TUDN reported that the 39-year-old will wear the captain’s armband one final time before formally relinquishing the role. El Colombiano noted that Messi holds the all-time records for Argentina with 207 appearances, 125 goals, and 68 assists.
Managerial decisions regarding the starting lineup for the rest of the squad blend veterans of the 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar with rising young talent. El Colombiano reported that young prospects like Franco Mastantuono and Leonel Flores join established stars such as Emiliano Martínez and Lautaro Martínez on the roster.
What Makes Benin the Historic Final Opponent?
Benin enters the fixture ranked 93rd in the FIFA world rankings, according to El Colombiano. Canal26 reported that the match marks Benin’s first-ever game against a CONMEBOL opponent in the nation’s history. Formerly known as Dahomey until 1975, the federation officially adopted the nickname “The Cheetahs” in 2022 to project speed and attacking strength, as detailed by Canal26.
The visiting African side has played over 340 international matches primarily within the Confederation of African Football, alongside occasional fixtures against Asian and European opponents. Canal26 highlighted a notable historical result from March 10, 1974, when the team defeated Denmark 2-0 in Cotonou under its former name.
How the Monumental Stadium Schedule Unfolds
TyC Sports reported a comprehensive schedule of live music, cultural tributes, and entertainment preceding the match at the Estadio Monumental. The pre-match program begins at 5:30 p.m. local time with musical acts including Seba Mendoza, Román el Original, Amar Azul, Santi Cairo, Q’ Lokura, and Damas Gratis performing before the national anthem.
The tribute continues with a performance of the national anthem by Fabio Santana at 8:00 p.m., followed by sets from Los Fundamentalistas, La Sole, and Ulises Bueno. TyC Sports outlined a late-evening sequence featuring a drone display, fireworks, and a musical surprise for the grand finale.
Where to Watch the Farewell Broadcast Globally
TyC Sports reported that television coverage in Argentina and worldwide will be broadcast live via TyC Sports on Flow (Channels 22 SD and 101 HD), DirecTV (Channels 629 SD and 1629 HD), and Telecentro (Channels 106 SD and 1018 HD). Online streaming is available through TyC Sports Play by registering with cable operator credentials.
Who Inherits the Argentina Captaincy Next
El Colombiano reported that central defender Cristian “Cuti” Romero will take over as the primary captain of the Argentina national team following Messi’s departure. Goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez and forward Lautaro Martínez occupy the subsequent positions in the leadership succession.
What Time Does Argentina Play Benin?
What time does the Argentina vs. Benin match start?
The match begins at 6:00 p.m. Colombia time in Buenos Aires at the Estadio Monumental, as reported by El Colombiano. The broader stadium events begin earlier at 5:30 p.m. local time with musical acts and opening ceremonies, according to TyC Sports schedule records.
What is Benin’s history against South American teams?
Canal26 reported that Benin has never played a match against a South American national team before this fixture. The team has played over 340 international games mostly within African competition, with rare matches against European and Asian sides such as Denmark, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates.
Who will captain Argentina after Lionel Messi retires?
El Colombiano reported that central defender Cristian “Cuti” Romero assumes the primary captaincy role for the Albiceleste. Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez and Lautaro Martínez follow him in the leadership hierarchy for the national team.
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