This is going to be a very special match for everyone in Argentina, with legendary Leo Messi saying farewell to the national team. I expect them to perform at a high level and take another convincing win over Benin.
Key Stats
- Argentina have covered a –3 handicap in their last 2 matches.
- Leo Messi has scored 10 goals in his last 9 matches for Inter Miami.
No Previous Meetings
This is going to be the first head to head match between Argentina and Benin.
Argentina's Post WC Results are Fantastic
Since their 1-0 defeat to Spain at the World Cup 2026 finals, Argentina have played two friendly matches in front of the home crowd and won on both occasions convincingly.
They crushed Bolivia 4-0 in Cordoba last week, posting 2.24-0.11 xG with 69% possession and 18-3 shots. Nicolas Paz was man of the match scoring one goal and registering one assist.
La Albiceleste then humiliated Burkina Faso with a 7-0 victory in Buenos Aires last weekend, dominating the pitch with 17-1 shots on target.
Benin Caused a Couple of Upsets Recently
Benin have also been active, participating in the AFCON qualifiers in late September, securing four important points in two matches.
They were tagged underdogs in the opening round against Burkina Faso but claimed well-deserved point on the road in a 1-1 draw, Aiyegun Tosin finding an equalizer in the second half.
A couple of days later, Benin hosted and defeated Mauritania 2-1 where Rodolfo Aloko stole the spotlight, netting a brace.
Team News & Predicted Lineups
Argentina (4-4-2) Emiliano Martinez; Agustin Giay, Nicolas Otamendi, Cristian Romero, Facundo Medina; Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Giovani Lo Celso, Nico Paz; Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez
Argentina have adjusted their roster after Villarreal defender Juan Foyth and River Plate attacker Thiago Almada withdrew due to injuries, while Nicolas Tagliafico remains a major doubt.
Argentina have adjusted their roster after Villarreal defender Juan Foyth and River Plate attacker Thiago Almada withdrew due to injuries, while Nicolas Tagliafico remains a major doubt.
Benin (4-2-3-1) Marcel Djandjinou; Youssouf Azongnitode, Yohan Roche, Mohamed Tijani, Tamimou Ourou; Imourane Hassane, Sessi D'Almeida; Rodrigue Aloko, Junior Olaitan, Soulymane Ourorou; Aiyegun Tosin
Right-back Abdoul Rachid Moumini was unable to travel due to paperwork issues, while Dokou Dodo returned to his club.
Right-back Abdoul Rachid Moumini was unable to travel due to paperwork issues, while Dokou Dodo returned to his club.