Lionel Messi will play his final international match for Argentina in a friendly against Benin on October 6, 2026, in Buenos Aires. The match, scheduled at the Estadio Monumental, marks the end of his storied career with the national team. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed the fixture, with Messi set to take the field for the last time in the iconic stadium where he has long been a fan favorite.
The game will be a poignant farewell for fans, as Messi has been a cornerstone of the team for over two decades. His participation in the match against Benin, a nation with a growing football presence, highlights the global reach of the sport. While the exact details of his role in the squad remain under discussion, the event is expected to draw large crowds, with many hoping to witness a historic moment.
Benin, a team with a unique football history, will face one of the greatest players in the sport. The friendly is part of a series of matches planned for the FIFA Days, with Messi's participation in the final game against Benin symbolizing both his legacy and the enduring connection between Argentina and its fans. The match will be remembered as a celebration of a career that has left an indelible mark on international football.
