Nigeria, Oct. 6 -- Lionel Messi will say goodbye to the sport he loves today, as the world champion takes on Benin Republic in a friendly match at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.

The 39-year-old is set to see off an emotional ovation from around 85,000 supporters as members of Argentina's 2022 World Cup winning squad join the country's emerging stars to mark his outstanding international career.

Messi takes his leave from the national team as Argentina's most capped player and leading scorer, with 207 appearances, 125 goals and 68 assists. His trophy haul includes the 2022 World Cup, two Copa America trophies and the Finalissima.

The News Chronicle reports that Messi's retirement marks the beginning of a new chapter for Argentina,...