Argentina FA Orders 10th-Minute Pause Across Matches to Honour Lionel Messi
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has announced a special tribute to Lionel Messi, directing football matches across the country to be stopped in the 10th minute as a mark of appreciation for the legendary forward following his decision to retire from international football. According to the AFA, matches across men’s and women’s football, as well as futsal and beach soccer, will be temporarily halted during the 10th minute of the first half. The stoppage will last for one minute, during which players, officials and supporters will join in a round of applause celebrating Messi’s extraordinary contribution to Argentine football. The decision to use the 10th minute carries a strong symbolic meaning. Messi has worn Argentina’s iconic No. 10 shirt for much of his international career, making the tribute a direct reference to the number that has become synonymous with his name. The AFA has also instructed stadiums equipped with large screens to show a commemorative video before ma...