Argentina vs. Benin: Messi's Farewell Friendly Preview and Lineups
Argentina Hosts Benin in Lionel Messi's Final International Match
In Buenos Aires, Argentina prepares to say goodbye to Lionel Messi as he takes the field for his 208th and final international appearance. The legendary forward’s farewell comes during a friendly against Benin at the Estadio Monumental.
Following his announcement to retire from international football after the World Cup final loss to Spain, Messi will get one last chance to perform in front of the home crowd. With 125 goals scored for Argentina, he aims to add to that tally against an opponent they have never faced before.
During this international break, Argentina's squad has been clinical, scoring 11 goals across victories over Bolivia and Burkina Faso. Now, the focus shifts to delivering the ball to their iconic captain for a memorable send-off.
Benin's Recent Form and Chances
The Cheetahs have shown some promise recently, winning two of their last three matches with a draw sandwiched between those wins. Their recent opponents include Guinea, Mauritania, and Burkina Faso—the latter suffering a heavy 7-0 defeat to Argentina.
Match Outlook and Predictions
“I’m forever grateful for being part of Messi’s wonderful story in the Argentina national team,” said coach Lionel Scaloni ahead of the game.
Messi’s career with Argentina includes a World Cup victory and two Copa América titles under Scaloni’s leadership, allowing him to rival Diego Maradona’s legacy. Fans and teammates alike are expected to be emotional during the farewell match, held at the iconic stadium where many great moments unfolded.
The expectation is for Messi to create magic one last time. His teammates will likely prioritize passing to him, ensuring he leaves the pitch with a goal added to his record. Argentina’s dominance over African teams this decade continues after their recent win against Burkina Faso, making them favorites once again.
Benin faces a tough challenge, having lost five of their last nine matches and conceding three or more goals in most of those defeats. It seems likely they will struggle to contain Argentina’s firepower.
- Prediction: Argentina 4–0 Benin
Expected Lineups
Argentina
All eyes will be on Messi, who is expected to lead the attack alongside either Julian Álvarez or Lautaro Martínez. Nicolás Otamendi will also mark his final match, reaching 140 caps as he returns home for this occasion. Slight injuries put Nicolás Tagliafico and Giovani Lo Celso in doubt, but the rest of the squad should closely resemble the dominant team that scored seven goals recently.
- Formation (4-4-2): Emiliano Martínez; Giay, Nicolás Otamendi, Lisandro Martínez, Medina; Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, Paz; Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martínez
Benin
Coach Gernot Rohr misses Dokou Dodo and Rachid Moumini but includes 21-year-old striker Sahid Ngobi, who might get playing time. Aiyegun Tosin, a forward for Lorient, aims to trouble Argentina’s defense after scoring four times internationally. Marcel Dandjinou guards the goal, bringing confidence after a penalty save in a recent win over Mauritania.
- Formation (4-2-3-1): Marcel Dandjinou; Azongnitode, Roche, Tijani, T. Ouorou; D’Almeida, Imourane; Y. Ouorou, Olaïtan, Aloko; Aiyegun Tosin
Match Details
- Location: Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Stadium: Estadio Monumental
- Date: Tuesday, October 6 / Wednesday, October 7
- Kickoff Time: 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT / 12 a.m. BST (October 7)
Viewing Information
- United States: ViX
- Canada: Not available
- Mexico: ViX Mexico
- United Kingdom: Premier Sports 2, Premier Sports Player
