The upcoming international window will mark Argentina’s first fixtures since Lionel Messi’s official retirement from international football, ushering in an immediate transition for the national team. While the AFA awaits FIFA’s formal classification approval, the Albiceleste’s upcoming slate of opponents has reportedly been finalized.
The 2026 World Cup’s extension into mid-July compressed the autumn calendar, prompting FIFA to expand the international window to allow national teams to play up to four fixtures. Following the cancellation of a proposed commercial tour in China after Messi’s departure, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) opted to host its autumn friendly schedule domestically between September 21 and October 6.
According to Diario Olé journalist and Argentina insider Hernán Claus, Argentina will play three friendlies during the upcoming window. The opener is scheduled against Bolivia in Córdoba province on September 30, followed by back-to-back fixtures at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires against Burkina Faso on October 3 and Benin on October 6.
The AFA is expected to formally announce the opponent slate, match dates, and venues on Tuesday. However, uncertainty remains over when head coach Lionel Scaloni will announce his squad, with rival federations such as Brazil already having released their selections for the upcoming window.
As for the squad, the most notable absences will be Messi and veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi, both of whom have formally ended their international careers. According to Olé, the remainder of the squad is expected to feature the core group that finished as runners-up at the 2026 World Cup, alongside several emerging prospects being introduced for the next cycle.
Argentina had initially planned to travel to Asia for a high-profile friendly against China, but those plans fell through following Messi’s departure. With the fixtures now set to take place domestically, AFA officials are awaiting formal confirmation from FIFA regarding their official status, despite having reached final agreements with the participating federations.
The AFA is seeking confirmation that all three fixtures will receive official “Class A” international status. That designation is particularly important, as Argentina intend to use the matches to serve the World Cup final suspensions handed to Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, and Thiago Almada before competitive action resumes.
According to Claus, federation officials expect FIFA president Gianni Infantino to grant the matches Tier 1 classification. However, the AFA’s official announcement remains on hold until formal authorization is received.