Lionel Messi is preparing for his final match with the Argentina national team, set to take place at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.
The fixture will mark his 208th international cap, closing a career with the national side that has lasted more than two decades.
Ahead of the historic game, thousands of supporters gathered outside the stadium, displaying large banners of gratitude at public transit stations and near the venue.
Messi spent time at the national federation's training facility outside the city, where teammates and officials held a traditional barbecue in his honor.
Messi Reflects on Transition
In a social media post earlier in the day, Messi shared his feelings about the upcoming transition.
"I have no doubt that I am going to miss all this.
I will miss it a lot, but nevertheless, it is the right thing at this moment," he said.
The announcement comes after a difficult personal period for the player, who faced emotional hardship following the death of his father shortly after the World Cup.
Some critics have questioned the Argentine Football Association's choice of opponent for the historic final match.
They suggest that a global farewell match against an international star selection would have been more fitting.
