Argentina to Pause All Domestic Matches at 10th Minute in Tribute to Messi

Argentina will pause every domestic football match this weekend at the 10th minute for a minute of applause in tribute to Lionel Messi, following his retirement from the national team.

"For the upcoming matchday across all men's and women's divisions and disciplines, matches will be paused in the 10th minute of the first half for a minute of applause in recognition of Lionel Messi's career with the Argentina national team," the Argentine Football Association announced. The tribute spans men's and women's 11-a-side football, futsal and beach soccer, with the 10th-minute timing a direct nod to the number 10 shirt Messi wore for almost his entire international career. Stadiums equipped with video boards have also been directed to play a tribute video before kickoff.

Messi confirmed his retirement earlier this week, revealing he had written the decision down back on July 21, just two days after Argentina's World Cup final defeat to Spain, but held off announcing it, later citing the death of his father Jorge as further reason to step away. He leaves as Argentina's record appearance-maker with 207 caps and all-time leading scorer with 125 goals, having played a record six World Cups and made a record 34 World Cup appearances across his 21-year international career.

Liga Profesional action resumes with Sarmiento hosting Estudiantes de Rio Cuarto on Friday, before ten top-flight matches follow across the weekend, including Newell's Old Boys, Messi's boyhood club, hosting Central in Rosario, the city where he was born.