Lionel Messi, the 39-year-old icon who wrapped up 21 incredible years with the Argentina national team, is about to get a tribute unlike anything we have seen. Soccer teams across Argentina are literally stopping their games mid-match to honor him.
A Nationwide Pause for the GOAT
Yeah, you read that right. Referees will pause play at the 10-minute mark of every match in the upcoming round of the Clausura tournament, as well as in other men’s and women’s leagues across Argentina. We are talking a full minute of applause, mid-game, to appreciate Messi’s legendary career with the national team. The Argentine Football Association dropped this news late Wednesday, and it is a massive, collective salute to his service.
The Legacy That Will Never Be Forgotten
Messi announced his international retirement on Monday, closing a chapter that saw him wear the No. 10 jersey for Argentina for decades. Dude led his country to the World Cup title in 2022, not to mention two other World Cup finals. Think about that dominance! He owns the national records for appearances with 207 and a mind-blowing 125 goals. It is wild, though, how this guy is idolized in Argentina but never actually played professionally there, moving to Barcelona at 13. He is still out there balling for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, so we are not losing him completely. But yeah, many call him the greatest player of all time for a reason.
This upcoming round of the Clausura tournament is going to be something else, a historic send-off. We are talking about a moment to just soak in what Messi meant for his country. While the international chapter is closed, it is awesome that he is still lighting it up for Inter Miami. Makes you want to tune into MLS, right?
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Fox Sports.
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