Lionel Messi to make final appearance for Argentina national team

Lionel Messi is set to play his final match for the Argentina national team on October 6, 2026, in a friendly against Benin. The event will take place at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, where a series of tributes and ceremonies are planned to honor the football legend before and after the game. Organizers intend to provide Messi with an opportunity to address the crowd following the conclusion of the match, provided he feels emotionally prepared to speak.

Public demand for the event was high, as all 85,000 available tickets were sold out in under two hours. Despite ticket prices starting at 51 euros, which are considered high relative to local wages, secondary market prices for premium seats have exceeded 2,000 euros. This match marks Messi's 208th appearance for the national squad, with whom he has scored 125 goals. His tenure includes significant achievements, such as winning the 2022 World Cup, two Copa America titles, the Finalissima, and the 2008 Olympic gold medal. The Argentine football federation has coordinated large-scale visual displays, including a giant flag and banners, to commemorate the player's career.