The Philadelphia Union teenager's movement and pressing show why his USMNT breakthrough is about more than one spectacular goal. The challenge is balancing freedom with restraint.
Lionel Messi has confirmed that his legendary tenure with the Argentina national team is coming to an end, releasing a poignant statement ahead of his final match. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner will take to the pitch for the last time as an Albiceleste player in a friendly against Benin at the Estadio Monumental.
Our betting expert offers his best Argentina vs Benin predictions & tips, as Lionel Messi makes his final appearance in an Argentina jersey in Buenos Aires.
Former Arsenal playmaker Andrey Arshavin believes Lionel Messi deserves to collect the 2026 Ballon d'Or following his heroic exploits for club and country. The Russian icon feels handing the Inter Miami talisman another golden ball would offer a poetic conclusion to his career at the highest level, citing his talismanic run to the World Cup final.
Former Tottenham goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes has heavily criticised Hugo Souza following his unconvincing display in Brazil's 1-1 draw against Australia. The 45-year-old labelled the Corinthians custodian's positional awareness "amateur", urging Selecao boss Carlo Ancelotti to overhaul his options between the posts ahead of November's friendlies.
Javier Zanetti has paid an emotional tribute to former international team-mate Lionel Messi ahead of his final Argentina appearance against Benin on Tuesday night. The Inter vice-president placed the talismanic playmaker alongside Diego Maradona, praising his resilience and backing Lautaro Martinez to lead the South American giants forward.
Benin captain Steve Mounie has stirred the pot ahead of his nation's high-profile meeting with Argentina by claiming he does not view Lionel Messi as an idol. The experienced striker made the surprising admission while discussing his philosophy on facing football's greatest icons on the international stage.
Lionel Messi is preparing to take his final bow on the international stage, but his upcoming opponents appear more interested in witnessing greatness than stopping it. Benin defender Mohamed Tijani has stunned fans by admitting that his side has absolutely no tactical strategy to handle the legendary number 10.
Lionel Messi is preparing to bring an extraordinary 21-year international career to an emotional close when Argentina host Benin in Buenos Aires on Tuesday night. The 39-year-old icon completed his final training session at Ezeiza, taking time to reflect on his impending farewell as Lionel Scaloni's men gear up for an unforgettable occasion at Estadio Monumental.
Lionel Messi is preparing to make his final appearance for Argentina in an emotional friendly against Benin on Wednesday. The monumental occasion will serve as a celebration of the legendary forward's international career, with manager Lionel Scaloni backing his team to thrive in a new era.
From learning alongside Barcelona's stars to living on his own in Denmark, the 20-year-old goalkeeper tells GOAL about the experiences shaping his life on and off the field.
.png?auto=webp&format=pjpg&width=3840&quality=60)
