ARGENTINA FOOTBALL MATCHES TO PAUSE IN 10TH MINUTE FOR SPECIAL MESSI TRIBUTE

The Argentine Football Association has announced a nationwide tribute to Lionel Messi, with matches across the country set to be temporarily stopped in the 10th minute of play to celebrate the legendary forward’s contribution to the national team.

The tribute will take place during the next round of Argentine football fixtures, with both men’s and women’s competitions participating. Games will be halted for one minute, allowing supporters inside stadiums to applaud Messi and honour his remarkable international career.

The choice of the 10th minute carries special significance because Messi has worn Argentina’s iconic No. 10 shirt throughout much of his international career. The gesture will therefore provide fans with a symbolic opportunity to recognise the player whose name has become closely associated with the number.

The AFA said the initiative was organised to acknowledge Messi’s outstanding service to Argentina. The decision follows the 39-year-old’s announcement that he would no longer represent the national team, bringing an end to a 21-year international career.

Messi leaves the Argentina setup as the country’s record goalscorer and most-capped player. He made 207 appearances for the national team and scored 125 goals, while also providing 65 assists during his international career.

His career with Argentina eventually produced the major international honours that had eluded him earlier in his career. Messi helped the country win the 2021 Copa América before leading Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022. He also lifted the 2024 Copa América and won Olympic gold with Argentina in 2008.

Messi’s decision to retire from international football came shortly after Argentina’s run at the 2026 World Cup. The team reached the final but suffered defeat to Spain, bringing Messi’s latest World Cup campaign to a disappointing conclusion.

The planned tribute will cover more than just the country’s top men’s division. The AFA’s announcement applies across its competitions, including men’s and women’s football, as well as futsal and beach soccer.

In stadiums equipped with large screens, supporters are also expected to see a special video celebrating Messi’s career before matches. The tribute will extend across the weekend’s fixtures, giving fans throughout Argentina an opportunity to participate.

The move represents a symbolic farewell from Argentine football to a player who has spent more than two decades representing the national team. From his early years as a highly gifted youngster to becoming the captain who finally delivered the World Cup, Messi has played a central role in one of the most celebrated eras in Argentine football history.

Although he has stepped away from international football, Messi’s playing career is not over. The Inter Miami forward is expected to continue his club career, while his influence on Argentine football will remain through the records, trophies and memories created during his time with the national team.