Lionel Messi plays his international farewell match against Benin on October 6. Ahead of the game, fans are wondering whether the icon will feature in Argentina‘s starting XI.
Lionel Messi is expected to feature in Argentina’s starting lineup against Benin. As this is his farewell match from international duty, the captain should play from start to finish.
It is expected that Messi will feature for the entire game. However, coach Lionel Scaloni could substitute him near the end of the match to allow him to receive a standing ovation from the more than 85,000 fans expected at the Estadio Monumental.
Argentina’s projected lineup to face Benin
Argentina is set to field a powerful starting XI, as this match will forever be remembered as Lionel Messi’s final lineup with the national team.
Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina looks on
Argentina projected starting XI: Martínez; Giay, Romero, Martínez, Medina; Prestianni, Fernández, Mac Allister, Paz; Álvarez, Messi.
see also
Lionel Messi’s international retirement: Who will inherit the iconic number 10 in Argentina?
Benin’s projected lineup to face Argentina
As for Benin, the African side is widely regarded as the underdog in this match, with many of their players praising Lionel Messi and acknowledging that this game is a tribute to one of soccer’s biggest icons.
Benin projected starting XI: Dandjinou; Azongnitode, Roche, Tijani, C. Ouorou; Imourane, D’Almeida; Aloko, Olaïtan, S. Ouorou; Tosin.
