Argentina gives Messi an emotional farewell against Benin

Lionel Messi’s farewell appearance for Argentina began with an emotional ceremony at the Estadio Monumental, where supporters gathered to mark the end of his national-team career in a match against Benin. Kickoff was delayed by about half an hour, according to the Guardian’s live report. The pitch was covered by a giant Messi shirt as the stadium filled with chants of “Muchachos”, Argentina’s familiar football anthem.

The match was eventually under way at the Buenos Aires venue. A one-minute ovation took place in the 10th minute, accompanied by fireworks and visible emotion from Messi as he saluted the crowd. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni was also reported to have become tearful during the national anthem, underlining the significance attached to the occasion.

Argentina controlled most of the early play. Messi was involved from the opening stages, sending a left-footed effort from distance toward the Benin goal before goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou dealt with it. He later narrowly missed after Rodrigo De Paul, his Inter Miami teammate, delivered a driven cross toward the edge of the six-yard box.

The forward also put a free-kick on target from roughly 30 yards, but the attempt was handled comfortably. Another opportunity came when Lautaro Martínez sent a driven cross toward Messi, whose volley went wide of the far post. The Guardian’s live commentary said he had already had three significant chances during the opening period.

Benin, described by the Guardian as a vastly outclassed opponent, still created an early opening. Midfielder Junior Olaitan ran toward the byline and shot wide from close range, with Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez appearing to have the effort covered. The farewell was also accompanied by criticism of ticket prices.

The Guardian reported that the match was sold out, while some people in Argentina accused the Argentine Football Association of pricing tickets beyond the reach of ordinary supporters. A broadcaster’s pitchside commentator apologised to those unable to attend because of decisions made away from the field. The reports supplied do not include a final score or describe the match’s conclusion.

Their emphasis is instead on the ceremony and the opening stages of what was presented as Messi’s final appearance for Argentina, closing an era defined by his long service to the national side.