Messi holds final training session with Argentina before farewell match
Lionel Messi took part in his last training session with the Argentina national team on Monday, on the eve of his farewell match against Benin at the Monumental stadium, according to Globo.
Lionel Messi completed his final training session with the Argentina national team on Monday, the day before his farewell match against Benin, reports Globo. The 39-year-old forward is set to play his last game for the Albiceleste on Tuesday at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires, a tribute friendly organised by the Argentine Football Association (AFA), according to Europa Press.
A smiling farewell
Videos show Messi smiling during the session, notes Maisfutebol. The player arrived at the team's concentration camp over the weekend, with a social media post on Saturday showing his arrival, according to Metrópoles. The match is expected to be a grand celebration in honour of the star, writes Gazeta Esportiva.
A new era begins
The friendly against Benin marks both a goodbye and the start of a new chapter for the South American champions, highlights Gazeta Esportiva. Messi announced his international retirement one month and six days ago, according to RTP Desporto, and this match fulfils all the dreams of the "pibe", as the Portuguese outlet puts it.
Tributes pour in
Former Uruguayan defender Diego Godín has paid tribute to Messi ahead of his final appearance, reports So Foot. The match, scheduled for Tuesday, will be Messi's last with the national team, confirming the end of an era that began more than two decades ago, according to Gazeta Esportiva.
