Argentina: What to know about Benin’s gift to Lionel Messi?

06.10.26 FT Friendly International

Argentina

3

:

Benin

0

Before Lionel Messi’s final match with Argentina, Benin had a special gesture in store for him. During the protocol ceremony before the match at the Monumental, Guépards captain Sessi d’Almeida presented several gifts to the Argentine No. 10, including a replica of the famous Amazon Monument.

A symbol of Benin’s heritage

Sessi d’Almeida gave Messi a miniature depicting the Amazons of Dahomey, an ancient exclusively female military corps from the Kingdom of Dahomey. The Beninese captain took the time to explain the meaning of the gift to the Argentine player in Spanish. The gift was intended for Antonela Roccuzzo, Messi’s wife.

Sessi d’Almeida explained to him that the figure symbolized strength, courage and determination, among other things, and that it was intended for his wife. The original monument is located in Cotonou. According to the Beninese government, the bronze statue is 30 meters high and pays tribute to the Agoodjiés, the warrior women who shaped the history of the Kingdom of Danxomè. It was inaugurated in July 2022.

Messi also received other gifts

The replica of the Amazon was not the only gift presented to the Argentine player. The Beninese delegation also gave him a rose, a pennant and a letter written by the Government of the Republic of Benin. In the document, Benin presents the Amazon as one of the precious symbols of its heritage and sends a message of friendship to Messi and his family.

Sessi d’Almeida’s gesture thus allowed Benin to showcase its history and cultural heritage during an especially symbolic evening for Argentine football.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr

Related teams and leagues

Argentina

Benin

Friendly International