Lionel Messi has stated that he is leaving the Argentina national team "in peace" as he prepares to make his final appearance for his country against Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires on Tuesday.
Speaking ahead of the match, the 39-year-old captain expressed deep gratitude to fans, calling the national shirt his dream, pride, and life for years.
The iconic forward announced his international retirement in August, ending a legendary 21-year journey with the Albiceleste that began in 2005.
Over his record-breaking career, he scored 125 goals in 207 appearances, overcoming early heartbreak to lead Argentina to Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, as well as the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The farewell match is expected to draw over 85,000 supporters to the Monumental, with the Argentine Football Association inviting members of the 2022 World Cup-winning squad and their families to honor the milestone.
Argentina will wear a commemorative kit for the event, where Messi will sport his iconic No. 10 shirt one last time before focusing solely on his club career with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.