The upcoming international window was supposed to be the start of a new era for Argentina without Lionel Messi. But from the moment Messi announced his retirement from international soccer, it seemed surprising for him to walk away without a final match on home soil.
It turns out that Argentina will get just that.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni released his roster on Tuesday for three friendlies, and to the surprise of many, Messi's name was included in the squad. Argentina will face Bolivia on Sept. 30, Burkina Faso on Oct. 3 and Benin on Oct. 6 in Buenos Aires.
That third and final match is going to be where Messi is expected to be involved.
🚨🇦🇷 OFFICIAL: Lionel Messi has been INCLUDED into Argentina squad list for his last dance before international
retirement. pic.twitter.com/2J6LPn6kuS
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 15, 2026
Instead of playing in all three friendlies, the Benin match will serve as Messi's official farewell in front of home fans.
🚨🇦🇷 OFFICIAL: Lionel Messi will have a FAREWELL with the Argentina National Team on October 6.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 15, 2026
He’s gonna say goodbye at Argentina’s friendly against Benin at the Monumental, Buenos Aires. pic.twitter.com/uVxo8PuuYP
According to Argentinian media, it had been in the works since Messi announced his international retirement. (Note: expand tweet for full text)
💣🚨 BREAKING: Leo Messi to have a farewell game with Argentina National Team. @FedeBueno73 🇦🇷🩵
— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) September 15, 2026
"Leo Messi is going to be included in the squad list that will be announced shortly.
"This is something that has been discussed ever since Leo retired from the national team. The… pic.twitter.com/giuAgsvgWD
Despite the international retirement, Messi's club career with Inter Miami in MLS is still active. But the scenes in Buenos Aires will be incredible on Oct. 6. Truly the end of an era.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Why Lionel Messi was named to Argentina's squad despite international retirement
