10th-minute decision for Messi in Argentina! To be implemented in all matches

Following Lionel Messi's decision to end his national team career, a special practice has been initiated in football matches across Argentina. The Argentine Football Association has decided to pause play for one minute in the 10th minute of all matches played this week, in reference to the number 10 jersey synonymous with Messi.

The first implementation of the decision took place during the Argentine Cup match between Velez Sarsfield and Boca Juniors. The referee stopped play in the 10th minute, while players and fans in the stands saluted Messi with applause.

A HISTORIC CAREER IN THE NATIONAL TEAM

The 39-year-old Messi has become one of the most important figures in the history of the national team with the trophies he won and the records he broke while wearing the Argentina jersey. The star footballer, who played 34 matches in the World Cup, scored 21 goals in the tournament. Messi stood out as the footballer with the most appearances and the most wins in World Cup history.

Messi also holds the title of being the only footballer to win the Golden Ball award, given to the best player of the World Cup, twice. He also went down in tournament history as the first and only player to score in the group stage, round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final.

Having played in 39 matches in the Copa America, Messi became the player with the most appearances in this tournament and scored 14 goals. In the South American qualifiers, Messi played in 72 matches and scored 36 goals, making him the top scorer in the history of the qualifiers.

Messi, who experienced one World Cup, two Copa America, and one Finalissima championship with the Argentina National Team, also won a gold medal at the Olympics.

News Source: 12punto