Argentina will stop all men’s and women’s matches at 10 minutes this weekend for a minute’s applause following Lionel Messi’s decision to retire from international football.
On Monday, Messi announced the end of his career Argentina His professional career, after setting the record for the number of international matches (207) and goals (125) for his country’s national team.
Messi helped Argentina reach three World Cup finals, finally lifting the trophy in 2022 as they beat France on penalties, although a 1-0 defeat to Spain in this year’s final denied them a successful defense of the title.
Before the World Cup success in Qatar, Messi lifted his first international trophy with Argentina in 2021, ending a 28-year wait for Copa America glory. They then retained this title in 2024.
Only the late Diego Maradona can compete with Messi in the world of Argentine legends, and the Argentine Football Association announced a special honor for him on Thursday.
A statement issued by the Argentine Football Association said: “In honor and honor of Lionel Messi’s career with the Argentina national team, in the tenth minute of play in all matches, the referees will stop the match and a general minute of applause will take place.”
“We look forward to seeing you on the courts – join us in this tribute!”
Lionel Messi: Argentine icon’s retirement statement
“After all this time that has passed since the final match, and after much thought, I want to announce to everyone my retirement from playing with the national team.” Messi He said.
“The decision hurt – and still hurts – deep down, but I understand that this is the right time.
“I swear I always did my best, not just in the last few years when we won it all, but before that as well.
“I have always fought and given everything for this shirt, to bring you happiness and make you proud to be Argentine through football.
“There’s not much time left and the seasons are ending, and that’s what hurts me so much. I love, loved and will always love to be in the national team.
“I gave it my all, I don’t have more to give, and besides that, there are some great young players coming up behind me who deserve to be there.”
