Lionel Messi is set to wear the famous blue-and-white Argentina jersey for one final time on Tuesday, as the world champions take on Benin in a special international friendly at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.
Messi announced his retirement from international football on August 31, via an Instagram post, bringing an end to a remarkable career with Argentina that has spanned more than two decades.
His final competitive appearance came in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Spain, where Argentina lost 1-0 in extra time after Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal.
ALSO READ: One Last Dance: Lionel Messi Arrives In Argentina For Farewell Game
However, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has organised one final farewell for Messi in front of his home supporters.
The 39-year-old is expected to make his 208th appearance for Argentina, having already established himself as the country's most-capped player and all-time leading goalscorer with 125 goals. He also has 68 assists under his name for the national team.
Which Team Are Argentina Playing?
Argentina, who won the 2022 FIFA World Cup under Messi's captaincy, will face Benin in the friendly on October 6. The match at the Monumental is specifically being held as Messi's farewell appearance.
Every single member of Argentina's 2022 World Cup-winning squad and their families have been invited to attend the special occasion. Several current Argentina stars, including Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso, are set to feature.
However, Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina will miss the occasion after their club, AS Roma, denied them permission to travel because of sporting and logistical concerns.
What Tribute Has Been Planned For Messi?
Messi will wear a special No. 10 jersey created for his final Argentina appearance.
He had unveiled the commemorative shirt on social media, with his name and number displayed in gold. The design also features Argentina's iconic colours and the Sun of May on the back.
The AFA has also planned celebrations around the match to honour Messi's extraordinary international career. Tapia has described the occasion as the farewell the Argentina captain deserves after more than 20 years with the national team.
Messi's international journey began in 2005. Since then, he has gone from facing criticism for his performances with Argentina to becoming the undisputed leader of the national team.
His greatest achievements came in the latter stages of his career, as he guided Argentina to Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024 before finally lifting the FIFA World Cup in Qatar in 2022. He also helped Argentina win the 2008 Olympic gold medal and leaves the national team as its record goalscorer, appearance-maker and assist provider.
Will Messi's No. 10 Jersey Be Retired?
The future of Argentina's iconic No. 10 shirt remains a major talking point. There have been calls for the jersey to be retired in Messi's honour, but coach Lionel Scaloni has indicated that another player will eventually inherit the number.
Scaloni confirmed that Argentina would not give the No. 10 to anyone before Messi's farewell, adding that the team would decide what happens after the match.
ALSO READ: Missed Messi In Kolkata? 22,000 Fans To Get Free India-Uruguay Tickets
From the disappointment of four major final defeats to lifting the Copa America and World Cup trophies, Messi's journey with Argentina has come full circle.
Essential Business Intelligence, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice, Daily Fuel, Gold and Silver Prices and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.
