Argentina Plan Unforgettable Home Farewell for Lionel Messi Against Benin

Emiliano Martínez has joined Argentina’s 37-man group for the October international window, with the Chelsea goalkeeper describing the planned home farewell for Lionel Messi as an occasion the squad intends to make unforgettable. Argentina will meet Benin at a sold-out Estadio Monumental on October 6, in what is set to be Messi’s last national-team appearance on Argentine soil.

Martínez focused on Messi’s home farewell

The goalkeeper, widely known as Dibu, said he had believed Messi’s international career had already ended before the prospect of a final appearance in Buenos Aires emerged. He stressed that the players want to ensure their captain receives a fitting celebration in front of home supporters.

• Martínez has reported for duty as part of a 37-player Argentina squad.
• Argentina are scheduled to play Benin on October 6.
• The Monumental is expected to be full for Messi’s final home fixture with the national side.
• Martínez said a farewell in Argentina would be a dream for Messi and that the squad would work to make it a special day.

For Martínez, the chance to see Messi recognised in front of a Buenos Aires crowd carries particular emotional weight. The goalkeeper said he had not expected another opportunity for the captain to say goodbye at home in Argentina colours.

World Cup final pain remains

The celebratory mood around Messi’s farewell does not erase the disappointment Argentina still feel following their World Cup final defeat. Spain beat Scaloni’s side 1-0 in the final two months ago, and Martínez admitted that loss continues to hurt.

He said reaching another final had been positive, but losing it meant the regret would remain with him for a long time. The October gathering therefore brings together both the desire to honour Messi and the need for the group to recover from a major tournament setback.

Qatar winners and families invited

Argentina’s federation has invited every member of the squad that won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, along with their families, to attend the occasion from the stands. The presence of that group is intended to underline Messi’s role in the country’s modern international success.

Scaloni and his staff also face a competitive task beneath the expected celebrations. Argentina must remain sharp against Benin despite the carnival atmosphere, while beginning the longer-term process of preparing a team that will eventually have to operate without its defining playmaker.