Lionel Messi farewell for Argentina, kick-off times confirmed | OneFootball

Lionel Messi farewell for Argentina, kick-off times confirmed | OneFootball

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·28 September 2026

Lionel Messi farewell for Argentina, kick-off times confirmed

Article image:Lionel Messi farewell for Argentina, kick-off times confirmed

Argentina have confirmed kick-off times for friendlies against Bolivia, Burkina Faso and Benin in the next FIFA window, which will also mark Lionel Messi’s farewell.

The opener is on Wednesday 30 September at Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes in Córdoba, 21:00 Argentina time. Three days later, the Albiceleste face Burkina Faso at the same time at the Estadio Monumental. Both matches will run at 50 per cent capacity because of sanctions received during the 2026 World Cup.


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The window closes on Tuesday 6 October against Benin, 20:00 at the Monumental. It will be Messi’s final appearance for the national team, with a memorable evening of tributes anticipated.

The Rosario-born star is due to arrive in the coming days and comes off a stunning free-kick against Columbus Crew, taking him to 76 goals from free kicks. He is now two shy of the all-time mark held by the Brazilian Marcelino Carioca.

There is also the prospect of coach Lionel Scaloni renewing his deal after meetings with AFA president Claudio “Chiqui” Tapia, and indications are that he will extend. Ahead of Bolivia, Scaloni has not revealed his likely starting XI.

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”

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