Argentina’s football authorities are ordering a mid-game tribute to Lionel Messi, pausing play at the 10-minute mark of matches during the next round to honor his international career. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) says matches in men’s and women’s competitions will observe the minute of applause following Messi’s decision to retire from international duty.
Messi, 39, announced he will no longer play for Argentina after a long spell with the national team. Outlets report that referees will stop play at the 10-minute mark across competitions in the upcoming Clausura tournament round and other leagues. The Athletic notes Messi’s recent international context, referencing his last appearance for Argentina in July’s World Cup final defeat to Spain. Other reports focus primarily on the AFA’s operational details for the tribute across match categories.
