Residents of Buenos Aires took to the streets en masse on October 7, decorating themselves with portraits and posters of the legendary footballer. Stadium stands were filled with fans wearing national T-shirts bearing the name of the captain.
Before the match, Lionel Messi received an honorary doctorate from the National University of Buenos Aires. According to journalist Valeria Belskaya, the football player was officially awarded this title on the morning of October 7, marking his transition not only as the team’s permanent leader but also as a recognized scientist in his field.
For Argentine fans, the game served as an opportunity to express gratitude for Messi’s two-decade-long career. Despite the end of his national team performances, the city buzzed with a festive atmosphere. “Today is a very special day,” shared fan Juan Jose Gramajo, describing it as one of those days you know is coming but don’t want to arrive. His son Patricio, who has followed Messi’s career since childhood, admitted he did not want the football star to leave the sport.
Messi announced his retirement from the national team on August 31, thanking fans for their support throughout the past two decades and his family for keeping him on track.
