Lionel Messi plays his final match for the Argentina national team at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires against Benin, concluding a 21-year international career that included winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Messi was rested for the team’s two previous fixtures before preparing to make his final appearance.
Paris Saint-Germain Sends Farewell Message While Barcelona Stays Silent
Paris Saint-Germain issued a public farewell to Lionel Messi ahead of his final appearance for Argentina, writing on social media that the milestone marked the end of an unforgettable chapter with the national team and wishing the forward well, adding the message, Akhir dari babak yang tak terlupakan bersama Argentina. Nikmatilah, Leo.
The French club hosted Messi between 2021 and 2023 before his move to Inter Miami. In contrast, Barcelona—where Messi spent the majority of his club career and won numerous major trophies—did not send a public message for the match. Barcelona previously posted a comment on Messi’s social media announcement regarding his international retirement last month, but deleted the comment shortly afterward.
Benin Defender Tijani Mohamed Declares He Will Not Mark Messi
Benin defender Tijani Mohamed stated that he has no intention of marking Lionel Messi during the farewell fixture at Estadio Monumental, explaining to Argentine television that the team intends to enjoy the occasion and stating, Anda tidak perlu mengawal Messi. Kami hanya akan menikmati pertandingan ini.
Mohamed remarked that facing the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner requires a different perspective, noting that he views the forward as the best player in the world, telling Argentine television, Messi, kamu adalah Tuhan,
and further noting, Spanyol adalah tim yang sangat tangguh untuk dihadapi, tapi saya ingin Argentina yang menang karena aku sangat menyukai Messi.
Mohamed also mentioned that he supported Argentina during the 2026 FIFA World Cup and was disappointed when the team lost the final to Spain.
Adidas Video Captures Messi’s Final Farewell Message
Lionel Messi released a farewell video via Adidas Football ahead of the fixture, reflecting on his long journey with the Albiceleste and the significance of wearing the national team jersey. “The time has come. I go with peace. I gave everything. This jersey is my dream. My pride. And my life. Thank you for loving me so much. I will always carry you with me,” Messi stated in the video released on X. Messi officially announced his retirement from international competition following Argentina’s defeat against Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, bringing an end to an international career spanning 207 appearances, 125 goals, and 68 assists.
Estadio Monumental Hosts the Final Fixture Against Benin
The international farewell match takes place at Estadio Mas Monumental in Buenos Aires, serving as a tribute to Messi in front of home supporters. The fixture kicks off at 06.00 WIB on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, with live streaming available via beIN Sports Australia. The match marks Messi’s final appearance in the national team colors after accumulating four major trophies: the 2021 Copa America, the 2022 Finalissima, the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and the 2024 Copa America, alongside 196 official appearances and 115 goals cited across national sporting updates.
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