Lionel Messi’s farewell match with Argentina is taking place at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, as the 39-year-old brings his 21-year international career to an end against Benin.
Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team after the 2026 World Cup, making this friendly his final appearance in the famous blue-and-white jersey.
The match is very significant for Argentina fans, with Messi saying goodbye in front of a packed stadium after winning the 2021 and 2024 Copa América titles, the 2022 Finalissima and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Match Officials & Referee for Argentina vs. Benin
Chilean referee Fernando Vejar is the referee for Argentina vs. Benin. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed Véjar as the match official ahead of Messi’s farewell game.
The full confirmed referee team is:
- Referee: Fernando Vejar (Chile)
- Assistant Referee 1: Carlos Venegas (Chile)
- Assistant Referee 2: Wladimir Muñoz (Chile)
- Fourth Official: José Cabero (Chile)
- VAR: José Cabero (Chile)
Argentine reports also confirmed that José Cabero would be handling VAR for the Benin match.

REUTERS - Amanda Perobelli
Fernando Vejar officiates in the Chilean Primera División, Copa Chile, and major South American international club tournaments including the Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana.
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