| Quick Answer: Argentina beat Benin 3-0 on October 6, 2026, at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. The match was Lionel Messi’s farewell game for the Argentina national team. Goals came from Nicolás Otamendi (48′), Nico Paz (61′), and Messi himself (71′, penalty). |
If you’re searching “who won Argentina vs Benin,” that’s your answer right there. But this game was about a lot more than three points on a scoreboard. Here’s everything you need to know.
The Final Score: Argentina 3, Benin 0
Argentina controlled the match from start to finish, despite Benin managed to keep them scoreless in the first half. In the second half Argentina made their attack and scored three goals, first by Nicolás Otamendi in the 48th minute, then another goal by Nico Paz in the 61st, and finally Lionel Messi scored a penalty goal in the 71st. The match concluded 3-0 in favor of Argentina, a comfortable victory which allowed the home crowd to enjoy the result rather than worry.
Why This Match Mattered: Messi’s Farewell
It was not just another friendly for Lionel Messi. The forward scored his 126th international goal as Argentina clinched the friendly match. Messi registered two assists as well, meaning that he was instrumental in almost everything that went well for Argentina on the night.
The match was more than just a friendly, though. It was a send-off for the football legend. Messi’s farewell was scheduled after the 2026 World Cup when he announced his decision to retire. He chose the match against Benin at Estadio Monumental for his final appearance. In addition, this farewell match was attended by several of Messi’s past World Cup-winning teammates, including Angel Di Maria, who turned up to wish the footballer well. Local musicians played during the warm-up and the ceremony, transforming the stadium into a music concert.
Messi received a standing ovation at full time as the referee presented him with the match ball and his red and yellow cards to keep as a souvenir. Players from both teams formed a guard of honor to congratulate him.
Goal by Goal: How Argentina Won
Here’s a simple breakdown of how the scoring unfolded:
48′ — Nicolás Otamendi: Argentina broke the deadlock right after half-time, a goal that settled the home crowd’s nerves.
61′ — Nico Paz: A second goal doubled the lead and put the game out of reach for Benin.
71′ — Lionel Messi (penalty): Messi stepped up and scored from the spot, the perfect way to close out his international career on a goal.
Benin, for their part, didn’t fold easily. They held a stubborn defensive block through the first half and only cracked as the game wore on.
Match Highlights You Shouldn’t Miss
A few moments stood out beyond the scoreline:
- Messi’s final touch on the ball — his penalty was the last kick of his international career, and the crowd knew it.
- The guard of honour at full time — players from both sides applauded him off.
- The halftime tribute — Argentina used the break to pay tribute to a legend of the national team, adding another emotional layer to an already heavy night.
- The old-teammates reunion — seeing 2022 World Cup winners back in the stands made it feel like a reunion as much as a farewell.
Lineups and Key Players
Argentina made a starting XI of Emiliano Martínez, a back four of Agustín Giay, Cristian Romero, Nicolás Otamendi and Nicolas Tagliafico, a midfield of Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernández, and a front line of Messi, Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez. It was a team full of players who have shared a locker room with Messi for ten or more years, as a farewell to the legend.
How to Watch the Replay
In the United States, the match was shown live on ViX. If you missed it live, highlight clips are widely available on ESPN and official broadcaster channels — just search “Argentina vs Benin highlights” and you’ll find the goals, the penalty, and the farewell ceremony in full.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the Argentina vs Benin match?
Argentina won 3-0.
Did Messi score in his farewell match?
Yes. He scored a 71st-minute penalty, his 126th international goal, and added two assists.
Where was the match played?
Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
When was the match played?
October 6, 2026.
Was this a World Cup match?
No, it was an international friendly, arranged specifically as Messi’s farewell game after the 2026 World Cup.
How many goals has Messi scored for Argentina in total?
126 international goals, with his final one coming in this match against Benin.
Final Word
Argentina’s 3-0 win over Benin will be remembered less for the scoreline and more for the moment: Lionel Messi’s last kick on the international stage ending in a goal. For Argentine fans, it was the perfect closing chapter — a win, a goal, and a proper goodbye.
