Lionel Messi will don the Argentina jersey for the final time, marking his 208th and concluding appearance for the national team. This historic farewell match is set to take place on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, when Argentina faces Benin at the Estadio Mâs Monumental, the iconic River Plate stadium located in Buenos Aires.
The stadium, situated in the Nuñez district of the Argentine capital, is expected to be filled with a crowd of 85,000 spectators, all gathering for an 8:00 p.m. local kickoff to witness the end of an era in Argentine football.
This farewell event is more than just a match; it is a tribute to Messi’s unparalleled contribution to Argentine football. Members of the 2022 World Cup-winning squad have been invited to attend, underscoring the significance of the occasion. The match follows Messi’s announcement of retirement from international football after the completion of the 2026 World Cup cycle, offering fans a final opportunity to celebrate the legendary forward on home soil.
Celebrating a Legendary Career
Throughout his tenure with the Albiceleste, Messi’s crowning achievement remains the 2022 World Cup triumph in Doha. In a gripping final, Argentina overcame France in a match that has since become etched in football history, further elevating Messi’s status as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Off the international stage, Messi’s club career continues with Inter Miami, where he is contracted through the end of the 2028 MLS season. His current deal with the American club extends until December 2028, signaling his ongoing commitment to the sport at a professional level despite stepping away from international duties.
