Half time at the Monumental and it remains 0-0 between Argentina and Benin. Both teams have created chances in an entertaining first half, with Messi also going close as Argentina continue to search for the breakthrough on his farewell night.
The search for the opening goal continues for Lionel Messi and Argentina. Messi has looked eager to make his mark on his farewell night and has had a few opportunities, but Benin have managed to keep the three time world champions at bay so far.
Lionel Messi continues to look lively and is taking his chances whenever they come his way, but he has been unable to find the breakthrough so far. Argentina remain in search of the opening goal as the deadlock continues. ARG 0-0 BEN 27′
Benin are not simply sitting back either, as they continue to test the Argentine defence and create some promising chances. They will be hoping to stun the three time world champions if they can make the most of these openings. ARG 0-0 BEN 19′
The entire stadium rises to its feet in the 10th minute as the match is paused for a special tribute to Lionel Messi. Fireworks light up the sky at the Monumental as the crowd celebrates the Argentina captain, while every Benin player comes over to shake hands with Messi in a special show of respect. ARG 0-0 BEN 10′
Lionel Messi takes a shot from outside the box, but the Benin goalkeeper makes the save. Messi and Argentina continue to search for the opening goal. ARG 0-0 BEN9′
Lionel Messi takes the short corner to Julian Alvarez as the duo try to create something down the left flank, but the move comes to nothing. As expected, Argentina dominate possession in the early minutes, with all eyes on Messi on this emotional night. ARG 0-0 BEN 4′
Kick-off at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, and it is an emotional one for football fans around the world as Lionel Messi plays his final match for Argentina.
An emotional moment at the Monumental as Lionel Messi fights back tears during the national anthem ahead of his final game for Argentina. The weight of the occasion is clear on the captain’s face as he prepares to lead his country one last time.
Lionel Messi walks out for the national anthem with his three sons by his side, making this emotional Argentina farewell even more special. The Monumental is ready for a memorable night as the GOAT prepares for his final game in the Argentina shirt.
Lionel Messi has completed his warm-up and is now just minutes away from walking out for his final game in an Argentina shirt. There is already a special tribute waiting for him on the pitch, with a giant Argentina jersey laid out in the middle featuring ‘Gracias’ and Messi’s iconic No. 10.
Neymar has penned an emotional letter for Lionel Messi ahead of his final game for Argentina, thanking his former Barcelona teammate for inspiring millions and for the memories they shared on and off the pitch.
Ronaldinho shares an emotional message for Lionel Messi ahead of his Argentina farewell, reflecting on their journey, their shared World Cup dream and Messi’s legacy with the national team.
Lionel Messi in the starting line-up as he leads Argentina in his final international appearance.
Lionel Messi fights back tears as he arrives at the stadium on the team bus ahead of his emotional Argentina farewell.
Hello and welcome to our live blog of Lionel Messi farewell match in international football as Argentina take on Benin.