Argentina’s head coach, Lionel Scaloni, confirmed that Lionel Messi will participate in a farewell match against Benin in Buenos Aires early next month. This friendly comes after Messi announced that the World Cup final would mark his last appearance for the national team. The Argentine football federation successfully persuaded the captain to play one final game in front of his home fans.
Messi had a memorable World Cup campaign in Qatar, scoring eight goals and four assists as Argentina reached the final. However, they fell short of winning back-to-back World Cup titles. His decision to step away from international football was further strengthened after the tournament, following the death of his father, who had been one of the biggest guides in his life.
“It will be hard not to cry that day, it’s a privilege to be there,” said Scaloni, whose side finished runners-up to Spain at the 2026 World Cup. With Messi now set to return for one final game in Argentina colours, Scaloni spoke about what the farewell could mean for the captain and the supporters.
The coach, who led Argentina to a third World Cup title in 2022, said he had played his part in ensuring the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward would have one final appearance in front of Argentina’s fans.
“I did my bit because I want to be there for his farewell and, since I don’t know if I’ll still be here in the future, we did everything possible so he could take part in this match,” Scaloni said. “If the award is for the best player…” he said when asked whether Messi should receive this year’s prize. “As far as I’m concerned, there is nothing new,” he said, adding that he has not yet held talks with Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia.
