Nearly 15,000km from Argentina, Messi's farewell match against Benin has become an emotional milestone for fans across India. From Kerala to Mumbai, supporters who named children after him, tattooed his World Cup triumph and woke before dawn for watch parties are preparing to say goodbye to the player they call their own.

Oct 7, 2026

Sports

Messi to Play Argentina Farewell Match Against Benin

Lionel Messi will end his Argentina career in a farewell friendly against Benin at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, with around 85,000 fans and members of the 2022 World Cup-winning squad expected to attend. The match marks a generational handover, with Messi leaving as Argentina's most-capped player and all-time top scorer.

Oct 5, 2026