Buenos Aires is preparing for a night of farewell at River Plate’s Monumental, where Lionel Messi is due to make his 208th appearance for Argentina in a friendly against Benin. The Inter Miami forward’s final match for the national team has drawn worldwide attention, with every ticket sold and resale prices rising sharply ahead of the occasion.
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Messi marked the eve of the match with a brief message on Instagram: “Thank you, Argentina.” The post was accompanied by a photograph of the Rosario-born forward kissing the special Argentina shirt that Lionel Scaloni’s side will wear for the occasion.
The friendly is scheduled for 01:00 Spanish time and will be played in a Monumental expected to become the centre of a major tribute to Argentina’s long-serving captain. Musical performances are planned before kick-off, while several figures who shared different periods of Messi’s international career are set to attend, including Nicolás Otamendi, Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso.
After the final whistle, Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia will present Messi with a commemorative plaque and a special shirt. Further tributes are planned, and Messi is also expected to address the supporters who have filled the stadium for his last appearance in the Albiceleste colours.
