Lionel Messi joins Argentina squad for Buenos Aires farewell against Benin | OneFootball

Lionel Messi has linked up with Argentina at Ezeiza ahead of Tuesday's farewell friendly against Benin in Buenos Aires, set for his final Albiceleste appearance after a 21-year international career.

The 39-year-old reported on Sunday to prepare for his ceremonial outing at Estadio Monumental, with his first session ending in a traditional squad asado. AFA president Claudio Tapia said they invited their captain so he can receive the farewell he deserves on 6 October in Argentina, before 85,000 supporters.

Lionel Scaloni's group reconvened buoyed by recent results, a 4-0 win over Bolivia followed by a 7-0 against Burkina Faso. The evening at River Plate's ground has been framed as the ultimate home tribute.

Giovani Lo Celso, Rodrigo De Paul and Nicolas Otamendi are set to start alongside the number 10, while Leandro Paredes will attend from the stands despite a 10-match FIFA suspension imposed after the 2026 World Cup final. Paulo Dybala and Nahuel Molina, both Qatar 2022 winners, will miss out after AS Roma blocked their travel.

Argentina will wear a bespoke one-off kit featuring the Sun of May and laurel branches around the iconic number 10. Messi carries a record 125 goals in 207 caps, crowned by the World Cup, two Copa America titles and the Finalissima. After full-time he will return to Inter Miami, contracted through the end of the 2028 MLS campaign, while Scaloni turns to building the next generation ahead of the next major tournament cycle.

Source: Goal.com

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