Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina’s squad for a farewell appearance against Benin on October 6, just weeks after announcing his retirement from international football. The friendly will be played at Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium, giving the 39-year-old forward an opportunity to make his final appearance for the national team in front of home supporters.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed Messi’s inclusion in the squad after president Claudio Tapia said the federation had invited the captain to take part in a farewell match. Messi accepted the invitation, with the fixture now set to mark the conclusion of his international career.
Messi’s final appearance for Argentina
Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team in August, bringing an end to more than two decades with the senior side. In a message published by the AFA, he said the decision was difficult but that he felt it was time to step away and make room for younger players.
The farewell against Benin will provide a formal closing to his international career after Argentina’s campaign at the 2026 World Cup. The AFA has described Messi’s departure as the end of a 21-year chapter with the national team.
A record-breaking international career
Messi leaves the Argentina team as its record appearance holder and leading goalscorer. According to the AFA, he has made 207 appearances and scored 125 goals for the national side.
His major international honours include the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the 2021 and 2024 Copa América titles and the 2022 Finalissima. He also won the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in 2005 and an Olympic gold medal in 2008.
The 2022 World Cup in Qatar was the first senior FIFA World Cup title of Messi’s career. He also played a prominent role for Argentina at the 2026 World Cup, where the team reached the final.
2022 World Cup teammates invited
The farewell event is expected to bring together members of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad and their families, adding to the significance of Messi’s final appearance in the national colours.
For Argentina supporters, the October 6 fixture will mark the formal farewell of a player who has represented the country since his senior international debut in 2005.