Messi to play final match for Argentina as Ronaldo's dispute with Portugal coach continues

Lionel Messi is set to earn his 208th cap for Argentina on Tuesday in a friendly against Benin at Buenos Aires' Monumental Stadium, marking the end of his international career. The match, promoted as "The Last Tango," sold out within two hours, and the squad will wear a special kit while members of the 2022 World Cup-winning team and their families are expected to attend. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said the game will be "very emotional for everyone, including Leo" and described Messi’s influence on the pitch as unique and irreplaceable.

Messi, 39, leaves the national side with 125 goals and 68 assists, having captained Argentina to two Copa América titles, a World Cup triumph in Qatar and a Finalissima win. He announced his retirement on Instagram, stating he had given everything to the team and had nothing more to offer.

In contrast, Portugal’s captain Cristiano Ronaldo is involved in a dispute with new coach Jorge Jesus. Ronaldo left the national team’s training camp before a Nations League match against Denmark after being an unused substitute in a 2-1 win over Norway. He indicated he would explain his reasons on social media. Jesus responded that his coaching decisions would not be altered by any player, adding that the situation was a misunderstanding and that Ronaldo could return if he wished to play. Portuguese Football Federation president Pedro Proenca called the incident a "misunderstanding" and affirmed that Ronaldo would remain eligible for selection if fit.

Portugal has won its recent matches without Ronaldo, with forward Gonçalo Ramos scoring in each game. The next steps for both national teams will be watched closely as Argentina prepares for Messi’s farewell and Portugal considers the future of its long-time talisman.