Lionel Messi to join Argentina for farewell match against Benin

What the report says

Lionel Messi is set to make what Al Jazeera describes as his final appearance for Argentina in a friendly against Benin on Tuesday at Buenos Aires’ Estadio Monumental. The match is being framed as a farewell for the 39-year-old forward after more than two decades with the national team, with Argentina preparing for life after its captain and record scorer.

According to the report, Messi will leave as Argentina’s all-time leader in appearances, goals and assists, and his international honours include the 2022 World Cup, two Copa America titles and the Finalissima. The game is expected to be attended by about 85,000 spectators, along with several members of the squad that won the World Cup in Qatar and players from Argentina’s newer generation. Coach Lionel Scaloni said the occasion would be memorable and acknowledged the challenge of replacing Messi’s influence.

The article says the farewell also marks a transition for Argentina’s team structure, with veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi also stepping away and other experienced players included for the Benin match only. Cristian Romero is seen as a likely future captain, while Argentina has already shown strong form in recent games, including wins over Bolivia and Burkina Faso. In broader context, Messi remains under contract with Inter Miami, but the report says he has suggested he may end his playing career sooner than expected.