Argentina sets date for Messi's final international match

Argentina announced a friendly against Benin on October 6, 2026, at Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, to serve as Lionel Messi's farewell appearance.

• The Argentine Football Association scheduled the Benin friendly as Messi's 208th and final match for the national team.
• Messi announced his international retirement on August 31, after Argentina lost the 2026 World Cup final 0–1 to Spain.
• Messi said the decision was "painful" but that it was "the right time," writing on Instagram: "Last match... a shirt for life."
• Coach Lionel Scaloni said he convinced Messi the time had come and that his contract renewal talks with AFA president Claudio Tapia remain pending.