Sports
Benin’s Tijani Says No Tactics Needed to Stop Messi in Argentina Farewell
Lionel Messi is preparing for his final international appearance, and Benin defender Mohamed Tijani has admitted that his side has no tactical plan to stop the Argentine star. The 29‑year‑old centre‑back, whose team is ranked 89th in the world, said that the gap in class between Benin and Argentina is undeniable. Instead of a defensive block, the underdogs want to enjoy the occasion. Speaking outside a convenience store before training, Tijani told Argentine outlet C5N, “We don’t need to mark Messi. We are going to enjoy this match. There’s no special plan to defend against Messi, we just have to enjoy this game, and that’s it.” He added that Messi is “the God” and “the best in the world.” Benin’s team doctor echoed the sentiment, calling Messi “the best in the world” and “the God of football.” The exhibition match at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires will be Messi’s last for Argentina before he returns to Inter Miami for the 2028 season. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni will need to prepare for a new era without the midfielder for future tournaments. For Benin, playing the South American heavyweights offers a valuable learning experience ahead of Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.