Benin hit out at Argentina over Messi farewell: ‘Treated like gangsters’

Controversy continues to surround Argentina’s friendly against Benin, played at the Monumental in Buenos Aires as part of Lionel Messi’s international farewell. Benin assistant coach Tunde Adelakun has voiced his frustration over the treatment his team allegedly received after the match.
Writing for The African Football Club, Adelakun described an exhausting journey from Abidjan to Buenos Aires before expressing disappointment at the post-match arrangements.
According to the coach, Benin’s players were repeatedly prevented from approaching Messi for photographs or memorabilia. He also criticised security personnel for dispersing players who had gathered to form a guard of honour. Adelakun claimed the atmosphere became particularly uncomfortable during Messi’s lap of honour, when the Argentine reportedly changed direction before reaching the Beninese contingent.
Despite feeling honoured to participate, Benin’s delegation left disappointed. “Respect should be mutual,” Adelakun concluded, emphasising football’s fundamental values.