Lionel Messi set to start for Argentina in farewell friendly against Benin

Lionel Messi is expected to start for Argentina against Benin on Tuesday, 6 October, in a special friendly at Buenos Aires’ Estadio Monumental.

The match is set to mark Messi’s farewell to the Albiceleste, with manager Lionel Scaloni likely to select several established players against a Benin side led by Gernot Rohr.

Argentina are projected to use a 4-4-2 formation, with Emiliano Martinez in goal and Messi partnering Julian Alvarez in attack. Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo Fernandez are among the players expected to provide balance in midfield.

The possible Argentina line-up is: Emiliano Martinez; Agustin Giay, Nicolas Otamendi, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Medina; Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Giovani Lo Celso, Nico Paz; Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez.

Benin are expected to respond with a 4-3-3 system. Marcel Dandjinou is tipped to start in goal, while Yohan Roche and Mohamed Tijani could feature in defence.

Hassane Imourane, Sessi D’Almeida and Dodo Dokou are expected to make up the midfield. Aiyegun Tosin, Rodolfo Aloko and Junior Olaitan are projected to lead the attack for the Guepards.