Buenos Aires’ stadium is preparing for Argentina captain Lionel Messi’s final match for the national team, a friendly against Benin.
A giant shirt bearing Lionel Messi’s name, number 10 and the word “Gracias” (“Thank you”) was unfurled at Buenos Aires’ Monumental stadium ahead of Argentina’s friendly against Benin. The match, scheduled for the night of October 7 Moscow time, is expected to be the 39-year-old forward’s final appearance for the national team.
Musicians are scheduled to perform before kickoff, with a drone and fireworks show planned after the final whistle. Messi is set to wear a special kit in Argentina’s colours with gold details.
Sport-Express reported that the game would be the captain’s 208th for Argentina. He has scored 125 goals over 21 years with the national team and won the 2022 World Cup, two Copa América titles and the Finalissima. Argentina’s football association and international news agencies have also described the Benin match as Messi’s farewell on home soil.