Soccer legend Lionel Messi is set to play his 208th and last match for the Argentine national team this evening, facing Benin in a friendly at Buenos Aires' Monumental Stadium. This game marks the conclusion of Messi's 21-year journey with the Albiceleste, as reported by EFE.
The match kicks off at 8:00 PM local time (11:00 PM GMT), with tickets having sold out weeks ago. Coach Lionel Scaloni captured the collective emotion, stating, "If there had been five Monumentals, they would have all been filled."
Messi approaches this landmark occasion with an astounding 125 goals and 68 assists in 207 prior appearances, solidifying his status as the top scorer, most capped player, and leading assist provider in Argentina's history. His debut took place on August 17, 2005, against Hungary in Budapest.
The day began with an unprecedented honor: the University of Buenos Aires awarded Messi a Doctor Honoris Causa, the institution's highest accolade. In his hometown of Rosario, a giant jersey with the number 10 and the word "Gracias" was displayed near the National Flag Monument, accompanied by an audiovisual show.
A Special Tribute for Messi's Departure
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has organized a special ceremony, featuring the presence of Qatar 2022 World Cup champions and a tribute video to be shown after the final whistle. The team will don a specially designed jersey for the occasion, adorned with the "Sol de Mayo" and laurel branches surrounding the number 10.
For those unable to attend the match, the AFA has set up a Fan Fest at the University of Buenos Aires' City Campus, offering musical performances, food stalls, and a giant screen to watch the game.
Global Acknowledgment of Messi's Legacy
Messi will start the match, although the exact duration of his appearance remains unspecified. All 2022 World Cup champions will be present, including Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez in goal—sporting a special haircut in tribute to the captain—and an offensive line featuring Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez.
The global soccer community has joined in the farewell. Neymar Jr shared a heartfelt message on Instagram: "Not only Argentina thanks you, the world thanks you for all you did for soccer." Benin's captain, Mohamed Siyani, was straightforward: "He is the greatest of all time."
Messi announced his retirement from the national team on August 31 via a handwritten letter posted on Instagram. Originally penned two days after losing to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, the announcement was delayed due to the passing of his father, Jorge Messi, on August 8 at 68. "I've given it all, I have nothing left to give, and there are great young players coming up who deserve their chance," he wrote.
His accolades with the Albiceleste include the Copa América 2021, the Finalissima 2022, the Qatar 2022 World Cup, and the Copa América 2024, along with two lost World Cup finals—2014 against Germany and 2026 against Spain—making him the only player alongside Cafu to feature in three World Cup finals.
In a video released by Adidas hours before the match, Messi summarized his career: "I gave my all, I leave in peace."
FAQs about Messi's Farewell Match with Argentina
Why is Messi retiring from the Argentine national team?
Messi announced his retirement, stating he has given his all to the team and wants to make way for the next generation of talented players.
What honors did Messi receive before his final match?
Before his last match, Messi was awarded the Doctor Honoris Causa by the University of Buenos Aires, and a special tribute was set up in his hometown of Rosario.
What special events are planned for Messi's farewell match?
The AFA organized a ceremony with World Cup champions, a tribute video, and a special jersey for the occasion. A Fan Fest was also set up for fans unable to attend the match.