Lionel Messi to play final Argentina match against Benin in Buenos Aires
Lionel Messi is set to make his final Argentina appearance against Benin at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, bringing an international career that began as a teenager to its close.
The 39-year-old Inter Miami forward will receive a farewell in front of Argentina supporters at the national stadium, with the friendly expected to be centred on the captain rather than the result. The late-night South American kick-off will also draw global attention as Messi wears the Albiceleste shirt for the last time.
Neymar sends message before Argentina farewell
Neymar has paid tribute to his former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain team-mate ahead of the match. The Brazilian, who ended his own international career after the 2026 World Cup, said Messi’s impact reaches well beyond Argentina.
“Everyone who loves football has enjoyed you over the years,” Neymar wrote on Instagram. “This is your last game in your country’s shirt, so I hope you enjoy every second.”
He added: “Argentina is not the only country thanking you. The whole world thanks you for what you gave football. You made me love the game even more. It was an honour to play against you, and even more special to make history beside you. Thank you, Leo.”
Who is affected
- Argentina: The world champions will lose the player who has led the side for almost two decades.
- Messi: His final cap ends an era that included painful defeats in major finals before Argentina’s Copa America triumph in 2021.
- Neymar: Messi’s long-time friend and former club partner joined the tributes despite the historic Brazil-Argentina rivalry.
- Supporters: The Monumental crowd will have one final opportunity to watch their captain represent the national team.
What happens next
Argentina face Benin in Buenos Aires, with the occasion designed as a celebration of Messi’s international legacy. After the final whistle, Argentina move into a new chapter without the player who became the defining figure of their modern golden generation.
