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Argentina vs. Benin: Preview, Predictions, and Lineups for Messi’s Farewell Match

Argentina is set to host Benin in a rare international friendly that doubles as a farewell for Lionel Messi. This Tuesday, the legendary forward will step onto the field at Estadio Monumental for his 208th and final game representing La Albiceleste.

After announcing his retirement from international football following the emotional World Cup final loss to Spain, Messi still gets one last moment to shine before his home crowd. Fans are expected to gather in large numbers to honor what many call the greatest player ever.

Team Form and Stakes

Messi aims to increase his tally beyond 125 goals for Argentina in this debut clash against Benin. His teammates have shown sharp finishing during this break, netting 11 goals combined against Bolivia and Burkina Faso in recent friendlies. Now, their focus will be on setting up their captain for a memorable send-off.

The visiting team, known as the Cheetahs, hopes to upset the occasion despite the odds. They come off two wins in three matches, including victories over Guinea and Mauritania, with a draw against Burkina Faso in between.

Match Prediction

Coach Lionel Scaloni praised Messi’s impact, calling himself forever grateful to share in the player’s journey with Argentina. Under Scaloni’s leadership, Messi lifted the World Cup and two Copa América trophies, echoing Diego Maradona’s status in the nation’s history.

“I’m forever grateful for being part of Messi’s wonderful story in the Argentina national team,” said Scaloni.

Tears are expected as Messi, teammates, and supporters bid farewell inside the stadium. Still, it should be a triumphant night for the 39-year-old as Argentina faces FIFA’s 93rd-ranked side.

Fans can expect Messi’s brilliance to emerge once more, with teammates urged to pass him the ball frequently to ensure he scores in his last match.

  • Messi magic: Anticipate the No. 10 to deliver a final dazzling moment for the three-time world champion.
  • Argentina vs. African teams: Argentina has won all seven matches against African nations this decade, including their recent 7–0 win over Burkina Faso.
  • Benin challenges: The visitors have lost five of their past nine matches, conceding at least three goals in four defeats, making them likely to struggle here.

Score prediction: Argentina 4–0 Benin

Predicted Lineups

Argentina

All eyes will be on Messi, who is expected to lead the attack alongside Julian Álvarez or Lautaro Martínez. Nicolás Otamendi will also make his final international appearance, reaching 140 caps, having returned specifically for this match.

Nicolás Tagliafico and Giovani Lo Celso remain doubtful due to minor injuries. Coach Scaloni will likely stick with the core group that scored seven goals last match, resting some players early in the second half.

  • Formation: 4-4-2
  • Lineup: Emiliano Martínez; Giay, Otamendi, Lisandro Martínez, Medina; Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, Paz; Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martínez

Benin

Coach Gernot Rohr will miss Dokou Dodo and Rachid Moumini but has called up young striker Sahid Ngobi, who might see playing time. Lorient’s forward Aiyegun Tosin is tasked with challenging Argentina’s defense after recently scoring his fourth goal for Benin.

Goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou faces a tough test against Messi but comes in confident after saving a penalty in Benin’s win over Mauritania.

  • Formation: 4-2-3-1
  • Lineup: Marcel Dandjinou; Azongnitode, Roche, Tijani, T. Ouorou; D’Almeida, Imourane; Y. Ouorou, Olaïtan, Aloko; Aiyegun Tosin

Match Details and Broadcast Info

  • 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 (Oct. 7)

Broadcast

  • United States: ViX
  • Canada: Not available
  • Mexico: ViX Mexico
  • United Kingdom: Premier Sports 2, Premier Sports Player

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