The match
What time does Argentina vs Benin kick off?
8:00 PM in Buenos Aires on Tuesday 6 October 2026, which is 4:00 AM PKT on Wednesday 7 October. See the kickoff time converter for your city.
Where is Argentina vs Benin being played?
At the Estadio Más Monumental in Buenos Aires, River Plate's ground and Argentina's usual home venue. About 85,000 fans are expected.
Is it an official match?
It is an international friendly. It still counts as a cap for Messi, making it his 208th.
Where can I watch Argentina vs Benin?
ViX and Prime Video (US), Premier Sports (UK), L'Équipe (France), ZEE5 (India) and GE TV (Brazil) were listed. See where to watch.
Why Benin?
The October international window clashed with the Nations League and other qualifiers, leaving the AFA a short list of available opponents.
Have Argentina played Benin before?
No. This is the first senior meeting between the two countries.
Who coaches Benin?
Gernot Rohr, who previously managed Nigeria. The captain is striker Steve Mounié.
Messi
Is this Messi's last match ever?
No. It is his last match for Argentina. He still plays for Inter Miami, with a contract to the end of the 2028 MLS season.
Why did Messi retire from Argentina?
He announced on 31 August 2026 that he believed the time had come for a new generation. See the full timeline.
How many goals has Messi scored for Argentina?
125 goals in 207 matches before the Benin game, with 68 assists. All three are Argentina records.
How many trophies has Messi won?
47 team trophies through the end of 2025, plus a record eight Ballon d'Or awards. See the complete list.
Has Messi scored against Benin?
No. He has scored against 44 national teams, and Benin is not one of them.
Which clubs has Messi played for?
Newell's Old Boys, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami. See Messi's clubs.
Match day
Where can I follow the live score?
On the match centre, which carries the score, scorers, lineups and result.
When will lineups be announced?
Normally about an hour before kickoff, around 3:00 AM PKT.
Will Messi play the full match?
Not confirmed before kickoff. It is coach Lionel Scaloni's decision.
Which Argentina players were not released?
AS Roma did not release Paulo Dybala or Nahuel Molina, according to CBS Sports.