Argentina football legend Lionel Messi has been named in the squad for three friendly matches in his home country, providing him the opportunity to say farewell to his fans following his recent retirement announcement from international football. The matches are scheduled between September 21 and October 6, as confirmed by the Argentine Football Association (AFA) on their official website.

The first match will take place against Bolivia on September 30 at the Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium in Córdoba. Following that, Argentina will face Burkina Faso at River Plate’s Stadium on October 3 and Benin on October 6. Messi, along with teammates Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso, is expected to participate in the match against Benin, marking his final appearance for the national team.

This series of friendlies allows Messi a platform to bid adieu to the international stage on home soil, a significant moment for both him and his supporters.

Messi’s Achievements With Argentina

Messi’s international career began in 2005, and throughout the years, he became Argentina’s most-capped player and its all-time leading goal scorer. He completed 203 appearances and netted 203 goals, guiding the national team to three major international titles. His journey, however, wasn’t without its challenges; after disappointment in the 2014 World Cup final and the 2016 Copa America final, he ultimately helped secure victory in the 2021 Copa America. This marked the end of a 28-year title drought for Argentina.

In 2022, Messi played a pivotal role in Argentina’s World Cup triumph in Qatar, scoring two goals in the final against France and successfully converting a penalty in the shootout. This win added to his already illustrious career and was followed by another Copa America title in 2024, further solidifying his position in the national team’s history.

His World Cup career spans six tournaments from 2006 to 2026, during which he scored 21 goals in 34 matches, becoming the second-highest goal-scorer in the tournament’s history. At the 2026 World Cup, he notably excelled, achieving eight goals and providing four assists, including his first World Cup hat-trick against Algeria.

Future Plans Beyond International Football

Despite stepping away from international competitions, Lionel Messi will continue to pursue his club career with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. His decision to retire from the national team does not diminish his impact on football; he remains an iconic figure in the sport. Through his contributions to Argentina, he has left an indelible mark on the game.

Messi’s legacy is characterised by a combination of individual brilliance and a commitment to his team’s success. Being an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, he is firmly established among the sport’s greatest players. His transition into life after international football will be closely followed by fans and analysts alike.

The upcoming friendlies provide an occasion not only for Messi to receive a heartfelt farewell from his supporters but also for the nation to celebrate its cherished footballing icon. His illustrious career, marked by highs and lows, is now coming full circle as he prepares for this significant moment ahead of his continued club endeavours.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share