In Cotonou, the score mattered less than the final appearance of a football icon. Benin’s 3-0 friendly defeat to Argentina in Buenos Aires on Tuesday night became an occasion for supporters nearly 8,000 kilometres away to salute Lionel Messi, whose international career ended against the Cheetahs.
The match kicked off at midnight in Benin, yet restaurants and bars across the country’s economic capital set up screens for a night that carried unusual weight. There were calls of support for Benin during the national anthems, but much of the crowd had come to watch Messi’s last dance with Argentina.
For Sylvestre Dagbedji, a 34-year-old security agent, Benin’s place in that farewell was a source of pride despite the result. “It is an honour that Benin were the final team Messi played against,” he said. “People will always remember that he retired after facing Benin.”
The Argentine, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, was cheered whenever he received possession. Benin’s attacking moves also drew applause, but the local audience gave Messi a reception closer to that reserved for a home favourite than an opponent.
He supplied two assists before scoring Argentina’s third goal from the penalty spot in the 71st minute. That moment prompted celebrations in the streets of Cotonou, with the home side’s defeat pushed firmly into the background.
“It hurts because Messi will not play again,” said artisan Toussain Kpadonou, who watched alongside around 100 people at a giant screen. “He was exceptional at Barcelona. I do not know who will be able to play like him again.”
For Benin, the fixture ended in a heavy loss. For many watching at home, however, it was a midnight farewell to one of the game’s defining figures.
