On October 7, 2026, the football world will turn its attention to the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires for an anticipated international friendly match between Argentina and Benin. This match holds special significance as it marks the farewell appearance of Lionel Messi in the Argentina national team, completing his remarkable 21-year international career.
Messi will be making his 208th appearance for Argentina, a pinnacle moment that follows his announcement of retirement from international duty in August. The Estadio Monumental has been a treasured site for Messi, who has played 28 times in this illustrious venue. Now, it will once again serve as the stage for his poignant goodbye. Notably, Messi departs the national team as its leading goal-scorer, boasting an impressive tally of 125 goals in 207 matches, including 21 strikes in World Cup tournaments, seven of which contributed to Argentina’s triumph in the 2022 World Cup. Aside from the World Cup, he has also secured two Copa América titles and a Finalissima trophy for his country.
As Messi approaches his farewell match, his current performance continues to inspire. He has netted 12 goals in 13 appearances with Inter Miami since his World Cup finale, demonstrating his enduring skill and passion for the game. Argentina heads into the match on the back of a powerful momentum, having recently defeated Bolivia 4-0 and crushed Burkina Faso 7-0 in their last two outings. In contrast, Benin will arrive after a recent 2-1 victory against Mauritania, following a 1-1 draw with Burkina Faso.
Squad Insights Ahead of the Match
As Argentina prepares for this significant match, they will be without the services of Juan Foyth and Thiago Almada, who have been ruled out due to injuries. Nicolas Tagliafico’s participation remains uncertain after he missed the last two matches. However, there is optimism surrounding Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso, who have a chance to return to the starting eleven. Messi is set to start the match, potentially replacing Lautaro Martinez on the field. Additionally, Nicolas Otamendi may also play his last international match, following his retirement announcement in July.
On the Benin side, Abdoul Rachid Moumini was unable to travel to Argentina due to administrative issues, and Dokou Dodo has returned to his club. Meanwhile, Sahid Ngobi has been called up to strengthen their attacking lineup.
The predicted line-ups for the match are as follows:
Argentina (4-4-2): Martinez; Giay, Otamendi, Romero, Medina; De Paul, Mac Allister, Lo Celso, Paz; Messi, Alvarez. Coach: Lionel Scaloni.
Benin (4-2-3-1): Djandjinou; Azongnitode, Roche, Tijani, Ourou; Hassane, D’Almeida; Aloko, Olaitan, Ourorou; Tosin. Coach: Gernot Rohr.
Historical Context and Predictions
The historical encounters between Argentina and Benin are non-existent, as the two teams have never faced each other before. In their last five matches, Argentina has been in formidable form:
- October 4, 2026: Argentina 7-0 Burkina Faso
- October 1, 2026: Argentina 4-0 Bolivia
- July 20, 2026: Spain 1-0 Argentina (after extra time)
- July 16, 2026: England 1-2 Argentina
- July 12, 2026: Argentina 3-1 Switzerland (after extra time)
Meanwhile, Benin’s recent performances include:
- September 30, 2026: Benin 2-1 Mauritania
- September 26, 2026: Burkina Faso 1-1 Benin
- June 10, 2026: Togo 5-1 Benin
- June 6, 2026: Benin 1-1 Niger
- April 1, 2026: Guinea 0-1 Benin
As the matchday approaches, the consensus is heavily tilted in favor of the home team. Argentina’s attack has been lethal, having scored 11 consecutive goals without conceding in their last two matches. The overall quality of Argentina’s squad far outstrips that of Benin. Although Benin has shown improvement by collecting four points from their last two Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, their defense has typically conceded only a single goal in five of their last six games. Nonetheless, facing Argentina—especially in Messi’s farewell match at Monumental—poses a unique challenge.
With the opportunity to provide a fitting send-off for their superstar, Argentina is anticipated to control the game, generate numerous scoring chances and ultimately secure a victory. The final score prediction rests at:
Argentina 4-0 Benin
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