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Argentina Beats Bolivia 4-0 in Its First Match Since Lionel Messi’s International Retirement – WTOP News
- On Tuesday, October 6, 2026, Lionel Messi will play his final international match for Argentina against Benin at Buenos Aires' Estadio Monumental, drawing 85,000 spectators to witness the conclusion of a career spanning more than 20 years.
- The Argentine Football Association orchestrated controlled conditions for the farewell, booking Benin on 25-hour commercial flights and providing inadequate hotel facilities to eliminate competitive variables and ensure a risk-free send-off.
- Messi concludes his tenure as Argentina's record appearance-maker with 125 goals in 207 matches and 68 assists, while defender Cristian Romero is set to inherit the captain's armband from the retiring icon.
- Coach Lionel Scaloni stated, "Collectively, we will try to fill the void left by Leo," as Argentina's squad transitions with 2022 World Cup veterans and emerging talents stepping into leadership roles.
- Author Sergio Levinsky describes Messi's relationship with Argentina as a "love under construction," reflecting a journey from early skepticism when he was barely known to the nation becoming his devoted admirers.
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For 22 years he has led the passionate, angst-ridden and ultimately triumphant Argentina on the pitch. Lionel Messi's journey with Argentine football was long marked by disappointment and an early farewell almost turned everything upside down. On Wednesday night, the greatest international career of our time will end, once and for all.
·Stockholm, Sweden
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The galleys went on for the players of the Benin team, who had to challenge Argentina for Lionel Messi's final game in the selection this Tuesday, October 6. The African team could not benefit from a flight...
Coverage Details
Total News Sources507
Leaning Left40Leaning Right53Center52Last UpdatedBias Distribution36% Right
Bias Distribution
- 36% of the sources lean Right
36% Right
L 28%
C 36%
R 36%
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