Lionel Messi completed his final training session with the Argentina national team at the Ezeiza training complex on Monday, October 5, 2026, ahead of his farewell match against Benin at the Estadio Monumental. The 39-year-old forward participated in the workout under manager Lionel Scaloni with a wide smile, frequently accompanied by midfielder Rodrigo De Paul during the drills and lighthearted rondo exercises known locally as “el loco.”
Final Practice at Ezeiza and the Final Rondo Session
The final training session took place at the Argentine Football Association headquarters, a facility officially named after the Rosario-born star. Messi posted an album of six photographs to his Instagram account following the workout, accompanied by the message, “Momentos especiales que sé que voy a extrañar…” (Special moments that I know I’m going to miss…). The session marked the conclusion of a national team career that began on August 17, 2005, in an international friendly against Hungary in Budapest. Messi arrived at the historic Ezeiza locker room past five in the afternoon before leading the squad out onto the pitch, flanked by long-time teammates Rodrigo De Paul, Giovani Lo Celso, and Nicolás Otamendi. Also following closely behind were the future new captain Cuti Romero, Lisandro Martínez, and Julián Alvarez. The text accompanying his photos had been written on July 21, just two days after Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, though he decided to postpone publishing it for several weeks. He is the only player to start in three World Cup finals and the only one to receive the tournament’s Golden Ball twice, in Brazil 2014 and Qatar 2022. Alongside the Rosario-born star, special invited guests present at the training session included his former teammate Ezequiel “Pocho” Lavezzi and Cristian “Kily” González, a former Argentina coaching staff member and current coach of La Pulga and the Motorcito at Inter Miami.
Squad Formations and Tactical Decisions for the Monumental Match
Manager Lionel Scaloni faces selection decisions regarding the starting lineup to face Benin on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 20:00 local time. Coaching staff are weighing whether to deploy a three-center-back system to accommodate as many Qatar 2022 World Cup champions as possible, or to maintain a standard tactical base. Due to the absences of Gonzalo Montiel and Nahuel Molina, the right-back position could feature Agustín Giay—the sole natural full-back remaining on the roster—or Giuliano Simeone. If Scaloni opts for a back three, the probable lineup features Emiliano Martínez in goal; Cristian Romero, Nicolás Otamendi, and Lisandro Martínez across the defense; Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, and Nicolás Tagliafico in midfield; with Lionel Messi supporting Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez in attack. Several players, including Otamendi, De Paul, and Lo Celso, were called up specifically for this fixture, while former internationals Ezequiel Lavezzi and Cristian González observed the session as invited guests.
Fan Fest Celebrations and Broadcast Arrangements in Buenos Aires
The event opens at 12:00 and runs until midnight, featuring a massive high-definition screen broadcasting the match live. The gathering includes musical performances by Kapanga and La T y La M, hosted by former goalkeeper Sergio Goycochea with his "Penales con Goyco" interactive feature, alongside photo opportunities with the World Cup, Copa América, and Finalissima trophies. Tickets for the Fan Fest are distributed via Deportick, while the match itself serves as Messi's 208th appearance for the Albiceleste since his debut over two decades ago. Parking is available next to the venue. The Fan Fest will also feature activations, games, and giveaways from sponsors including Coca-Cola, Lay’s, McCain, and Speed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Messi’s Farewell Match
When and where is Lionel Messi’s farewell match for Argentina?
The match takes place on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, starting at 20:00 local time at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires against the national team of Benin, as reported.
What trophies did Lionel Messi win during his career with Argentina?
Messi captured four major titles with the senior national team: the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 Finalissima, the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, and the 2024 Copa América.
What is the AFA “Gracias, Leo” Fan Fest?
It is an official fan gathering held at the UBA Ciudad Universitaria sports ground from 12:00 to 00:00 on October 6, 2026, featuring live music from Kapanga and La T y La M, food zones, trophy displays, and a live broadcast of the Argentina-Benin match.
Which players joined Messi as late additions for this farewell fixture?
Nicolás Otamendi, Rodrigo De Paul, and Giovani Lo Celso were called up specifically for this match alongside Messi, though their exact playing time and starting status remain unconfirmed by the coaching staff.
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