Messi's Final Argentina Match Draws Thousands to Buenos Aires Streets

Tens of thousands of fans descended on Buenos Aires on Tuesday to catch a glimpse of Lionel Messi as the legendary footballer prepared for his final match representing Argentina. The 39-year-old is set to conclude his illustrious 21-year international career, marked by 125 goals, two Copa America titles, and a World Cup victory.

The friendly against West African minnows Benin, Messi's 208th appearance for his country, has transformed into a significant event for Argentine soccer, dubbed 'the last tango' by the Argentine Football Association. Tickets for the match at the 85,000-capacity Estadio Monumental, home of River Plate, sold out in 90 minutes.

Images from the capital showed throngs of supporters outside the stadium hours before kickoff, many with flares and banners honoring their retiring hero. Some fans displayed Messi tattoos, while others had his image painted on their faces. Members of Argentina's 2022 World Cup-winning squad and their families were also invited to join the tribute.

Messi's decision to retire from international football came just weeks after the World Cup final. He announced his departure from the national team on August 31, weeks after Argentina's World Cup journey concluded with a loss in the final at MetLife Stadium near New York.

Benin's squad members were reportedly observed in the capital, with center-back Tijani Mohamed quoted as saying, "You don't mark Messi. We are just going to enjoy this match. I'm going to look at him like this: 'Messi, you are God.'"

Although Messi will continue his club career with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, Tuesday's match marks the end of an era for his international career. The national team had scheduled friendlies against Bolivia, Burkina Faso, and Benin during this international break, reportedly holding Messi out of earlier matches to ensure his fitness for his farewell game.