Lionel Messi will take to the pitch for his international farewell match as Argentina faces Benin on October 6. Ahead of the historic encounter, supporters have been eagerly anticipating whether the legendary forward will begin the match in the starting lineup.
Lionel Messi will indeed feature in Argentina’s starting XI against Benin. Given that this fixture marks his final appearance representing the national team, the captain is expected to play from the opening whistle until the final horn.
While it is anticipated that Messi may participate in the entire contest, manager Lionel Scaloni might introduce a substitute in the closing moments to enable the departing icon to savour a well-deserved standing ovation from the anticipated crowd of over 85,000 spectators at Estadio Monumental.
Argentina’s Confirmed Lineup to Face Benin
Argentina will deploy a formidable starting eleven, as this match will indelibly be remembered as Lionel Messi’s concluding lineup with the national team.
Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina looks on
Argentina confirm starting XI: Dibu Martínez; Agustín Giay, Cristian Romero, Otamendi, Nicolás Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister; Julián Álvarez, Lautaro Martínez, Lionel Messi.
Benin’s Confirmed Lineup to Face Argentina
Meanwhile, the Benin national team enters the match as significant underdogs, with several of their players publicly expressing their admiration for Lionel Messi and acknowledging that this fixture serves as a tribute to one of soccer’s most iconic figures.
Benin confirm starting XI: Marcel Dandjinou, Tamimou Ouorou, Yohan Roche, Mohamed Tijani, Liam Omore, Sessi D’Almeida, Hassane Imourane, Yamirou Ouorou, Rodolfo Aloko, Junior Olaitan, Aiyegun Tosin.
