Argentina’s farewell plans frame succession after Messi
Lionel Messi is expected to make his final Argentina appearance against Benin in Buenos Aires, with defender Cristian Romero set to take over the captaincy.
Argentina’s friendly against Benin at Estadio Monumental is expected to mark the end of Lionel Messi’s international career. The match, reported by Al Jazeera, is scheduled for Tuesday, though the supplied reporting does not confirm it has taken place.
Messi announced his international retirement in August after more than two decades with Argentina. He leaves as the team’s record appearance-maker, with 207 games, and leading scorer, with 125 goals. His honours include the 2022 World Cup, two Copa América titles and the Finalissima.
Coach Lionel Scaloni said defender Cristian Romero is set to inherit the captain’s armband. Argentina’s recent wins over Bolivia and Burkina Faso have also featured younger players among the scorers, as the team begins to build around its next generation.
Scaloni said Argentina would not reassign Messi’s number 10 shirt until after the farewell match. Members of the 2022 World Cup-winning squad and their families are expected to attend.
Messi remains under contract with Inter Miami until 2028. The match is expected to draw about 85,000 spectators.
