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Messi Prepares for Argentina Farewell as New Generation Emerges
Lionel Messi is preparing to play his last game for Argentina.
The team will face Benin in a friendly match in Buenos Aires.
Many fans and some of Messi's old teammates are expected to be there.
Messi has played for Argentina for more than 20 years and scored more goals for the team than anyone else.
Argentina has won recent games while giving younger players a chance.
Coach Lionel Scaloni says the team will work together to take on the challenge of playing without Messi.
Defender Cristian Romero is expected to become the next captain.
The team will decide what happens to Messi's number 10 shirt after the farewell game.
Lionel Messi is set to make his final Argentina appearance in a friendly against Benin at Buenos Aires' Estadio Monumental.
The farewell is expected to draw 85,000 spectators and reunite Messi with teammates from Argentina's 2022 World Cup-winning squad.
Messi leaves as Argentina's record appearance-maker and leading scorer, with 207 games, 125 goals and 68 assists.
Coach Lionel Scaloni says younger players will try to fill Messi's role, with Cristian Romero expected to inherit the captain's armband.
Argentina has recently beaten Bolivia 4-0 and Burkina Faso 7-0; Scaloni said the team will decide who gets the number 10 shirt after Messi's farewell.
- Who
- Lionel Messi, Argentina's national team and Benin's national team.
- What
- Messi is set to make his final appearance for Argentina in a farewell friendly against Benin.
- Where
- Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- When
- Tuesday; the article does not give a calendar date.
- Why
- The match marks Messi's international retirement and a symbolic transition to a younger generation of Argentina players.
Key facts
- Match
- Argentina vs. Benin, a friendly
- Venue
- Estadio Monumental, Buenos Aires
- Expected attendance
- 85,000 spectators
- Argentina appearances
- 207, a national record
- Argentina goals
- 125, a national record
- Assists
- 68, a record for Argentina
- Recent results
- Argentina beat Bolivia 4-0 and Burkina Faso 7-0
- Likely next captain
- Cristian Romero is expected to inherit the armband
Quotes
Lionel Scaloni
Argentina coach
“I gave it my all; I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are great young players coming up who deserve their chance.”
deccanchronicle.com
“It's going to be an unforgettable day for everyone. Everyone wants to be at this match, and now it's just about enjoying it.”
deccanchronicle.com
Sources
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