Argentina to bid farewell to Lionel Messi in special match against Benin at Monumental Stadium

Argentina is preparing an extraordinary farewell for its star Lionel Messi, as the national team captain plays his final international match against Benin early Wednesday at Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, amid a level of public anticipation not seen in years.

A report by French outlet RMC Sport said the match has become a national event that goes beyond sport, with extensive preparations underway to celebrate the career of one of Argentina's greatest football icons.

Unprecedented demand for tickets

Ariel Senosiain, renowned commentator for Argentina matches on TyC Sports, explained that demand for tickets has exceeded all expectations, with more than half a million people attempting to buy tickets online. He noted that the crowd could have filled five stadiums if enough seats were available, but only 85,000 fans will be able to attend inside Monumental Stadium.

In addition, the Argentine Football Association is setting up a massive fan zone called "Gracias, Leo" near the stadium, starting from midday on match day, to accommodate the huge number of supporters eager to take part in Messi's farewell night.

Messi's tribute and the anticipated celebration

Argentina's players are expected to wear shirts with gold numbers designed specifically for the occasion. All members of the 2022 World Cup-winning squad who are not on the current roster have been invited, along with their families, to attend and join the farewell ceremony.

According to Argentine media, the match will feature artistic performances before kickoff, while most of the tributes will take place after the final whistle. Messi will receive a commemorative plaque and a special shirt, and a moving video will be shown on the stadium screens before the Argentine star addresses the crowd in his farewell speech.

Messi and the team's preparations for the final moment

The Argentine Football Association continues its preparations for the event despite some criticism over the speed of organizing the ceremony. Messi, who was born in Rosario, joined the national team camp on Sunday and has participated in the final training sessions ahead of the match. Messi is expected to close the chapter on his international career after years of leading Argentina and winning the 2022 World Cup.