Argentina’s camp has paused for a distinctly national ritual as Lionel Messi approaches what could be one of his final appearances for the Albiceleste. Emiliano Martínez and the squad gathered around an Argentine asado for their captain, turning the hours before the Benin match into a personal farewell moment.
Key takeaways
- Emiliano Martínez helped organise a traditional barbecue for Messi and the Argentina squad.
- The meal was intended as a shared occasion for the captain during the closing phase of his international career.
- Argentina are preparing to face Benin, a fixture that may mark Messi’s last outing in the national shirt.
- Benin have expressed excitement at being involved in a potential farewell for the Argentine captain.
A gathering shaped by Argentina’s traditions
The asado was led by Martínez with fellow members of the national-team group, offering Messi a relaxed gathering before the next match. Far more than a meal in Argentine culture, the barbecue provided a familiar setting for teammates to spend time together around the player who has defined an era for the side.
Messi’s presence at one of Argentina’s recent training sessions had already drawn a strong response from supporters, with the possibility of his departure giving added weight to routine preparations. He has been the team’s central figure for more than a decade and has since lifted both the Copa América and the World Cup with his country.
Benin fixture carries farewell atmosphere
Argentina’s match against Benin comes only hours after the squad’s tribute. While Benin may appear less formidable on paper, the occasion has taken on significance because of Messi’s potential goodbye.
For Martínez and the rest of the group, the intention was to honour their captain in a setting close to home: teammates, food and one of Argentina’s best-known customs, before the next chapter of Messi’s international story is decided.
