Lionel Messi has been included in Argentina’s squad for the friendly against Benin on October 6 at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, a match expected to serve as his final appearance for the national team. The Argentina Football Association has confirmed that the fixture will be dedicated to the legendary forward following his decision to retire from international football. The occasion is set to give Messi the opportunity to bid farewell to supporters on home soil after an extraordinary career with La Albiceleste.

Messi leaves the Argentina national team as its most prolific scorer and most-capped player, having registered 125 goals in 207 appearances. His international career reached its highest point with the 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar, while he also played a key role in Argentina’s success in other major tournaments. The October fixture is expected to bring together members of the 2022 World Cup-winning squad, creating a special occasion for Messi and the players who shared that historic achievement with him.

Before the farewell against Benin, Argentina are scheduled to face Bolivia on September 30 and Burkina Faso on October 3. Those matches will form part of the team’s preparations before attention turns to the Monumental and Messi’s anticipated final appearance in the famous blue and white shirt. The national team will have the chance to celebrate an era that produced one of the most decorated and influential players in Argentine football history.

Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso are also set to be involved specifically for the Benin fixture, despite being included in the wider Argentina squad. Their presence adds further significance to an event designed to recognize Messi’s international career. With his record of 125 goals across 207 games, the match will mark the closing chapter of his journey with Argentina and provide supporters with an opportunity to see their captain represent the national team one final time.