The countdown to Lionel Messi’s final appearance for Argentina is officially underway, with the legendary captain set to bid farewell to the national team on October 6.
Messi will play his final match for La Albiceleste against Benin at the Estadio Monumental, bringing an extraordinary international career spanning more than two decades to a close.
To mark the occasion, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has prepared a special commemorative jersey that will go on sale for fans.
Messi unveiled the jersey on Instagram, sharing a brief but emotional message alongside it: “Last game, a jersey for a lifetime.”
The farewell match will mark the end of one of the most decorated international careers in football history.
Messi announced on August 29 that he would retire from international football, confirming that the friendly against Benin would be his final appearance in Argentina colours.
The 39-year-old leaves behind an exceptional record of 207 international appearances and 125 goals.
During his time with Argentina, Messi won the 2022 FIFA World Cup, two Copa América titles and an Olympic gold medal. He also became the national team’s captain and all-time leading goalscorer.
The AFA is planning an elaborate tribute to honour the captain, with members of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad invited to attend the match alongside their families.
Among those expected at the Monumental is former teammate Ángel Di María, who has already confirmed his intention to be in the stands for Messi’s final night in an Argentina shirt.
After more than 20 years representing his country, Messi will walk onto the pitch for the final time as an Argentina international.
