Buenos Aires is preparing for a symbolic night at the Monumental on 6 October, when Argentina are set to face Benin in what is expected to be Lionel Messi’s final appearance for the national team. The match would close an era for the Albiceleste captain, while Cristian “Cuti” Romero has already stepped into a more prominent leadership role.
A changing of the armband
Romero wore the captain’s armband during Argentina’s 4-0 victory over Bolivia, taking responsibility in a side long defined by Messi’s presence. The Atlético de Madrid centre-back has been chosen as the figure to lead the team after Messi’s eventual departure, with Lionel Scaloni informed of the preference expressed by Messi and Nicolás Otamendi.
- Argentina will host Benin at the Monumental on 6 October.
- The fixture is being framed as Messi’s last match for Argentina and his final game as captain.
- Romero has been selected to assume the leading role in the next cycle.
- Messi and Otamendi supported Romero’s appointment and discussed it with coach Scaloni.
The defender explained that he had known of the decision for some time. “Scaloni told me quite a while ago that Otamendi and Messi had chosen me to be the third captain,” Romero said. “I am ready to take on this enormous responsibility.”
A memorable homecoming against Bolivia
The Bolivia match carried particular weight for Romero. It took place at the same stadium where he made his professional debut a decade earlier, and he marked his first outing with the armband by scoring Argentina’s third goal.
Romero set the tone from the warm-up, taking an active vocal role around the squad. In the 52nd minute, he met Nico Paz’s precise corner with a header that found the net. It was a milestone that even Messi did not achieve on his own first day as Argentina captain.
Applause from the stands, and a gesture to Martínez
Two minutes after his goal, Romero’s evening acquired another emotional moment. He was replaced by Balerdi and left the field to loud acclaim, with supporters chanting his name. Before departing, he passed the armband to goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez.
It represents a notable break after 16 years in which Messi has been the central captaincy figure. Romero knows that replacing a player of Messi’s standing will bring unusual pressure, but he has spoken openly about the standard left behind.
“We have his example, and we will miss Leo,” Romero said.
