Messi Returns for Emotional Argentina Farewell After Retirement, Fans Anticipate Historic Send-off
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Football icon Lionel Messi is set to make a dramatic farewell appearance for the Argentina national team on October 6, just weeks after announcing his international retirement following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has called up the legendary captain for a special home friendly against Benin, aiming to give him a deserved send-off in front of an adoring crowd in Buenos Aires. Messi, at 39, declared his international career over in August after Argentina's heartbreaking loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, a decision that followed a stellar two-decade run which included lifting the 2022 FIFA World Cup and winning Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024. This call-up marks a unique moment, giving fans a final chance to celebrate the player who has defined a generation of Argentine football, having previously retired briefly in 2016 only to return. The farewell match against Benin at River Plate's Estadio Monumental is the highlight of Argentina's upcoming three-game home friendly series during the extended September 21 - October 6 FIFA international window. Before Messi's final curtain call, La Albiceleste will also face Bolivia on September 30 and Burkina Faso on October 3. AFA President Claudio Tapia has invited all members of the 2022 World Cup-winning squad to join Messi for this 'unforgettable' occasion, making it a poignant moment for global football.