Lionel Messi’s decision to retire from the Argentine national team caused a great stir throughout the country, prompting the soccer federation to launch a special initiative in honor of the iconic captain of the “Albiceleste.”
The AFA announced that in all Argentine soccer matches across all divisions in the coming period, matches will be paused as soon as the clock reaches the 10th minute. For one minute, players and fans will be asked to applaud Messi, paying tribute to one of the most important figures in the history of the country’s soccer.
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The initiative applies not only to men’s leagues but extends to all divisions and competitions, in both men’s and women’s soccer, as well as futsal and beach soccer. The first such moment was captured during the match between Boca Juniors and Vélez in the Argentine Cup, when, in the 10th minute, the stadium erupted in a prolonged round of applause for the 39-year-old star.
According to the federation’s decision, stadiums equipped with screens will show a special AFA video dedicated to Messi before the start of matches. At the same time, fans in the stands are expected to participate with flags, chants, and songs in honor of the national team’s former captain.
The choice of the 10th minute is by no means coincidental, as it refers to the No. 10 jersey, which has come to be synonymous with Messi’s presence on the Argentine national team. The Argentine star concluded his career with the “Albiceleste” having recorded 207 appearances and 125 goals, holding the national team’s records in both categories.
*photo source: AP
