Argentina-Benin: Marcel Dandjinou warns Messi, no favors will be given

Benin is preparing for a special moment against Argentina at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. This match, billed as one of Lionel Messi's last appearances for the Albiceleste on home soil, is generating immense interest. But for the Beninese, there's no question of simply joining the party.

In goal for the Cheetahs, Marcel Dandjinou fully intends to play his part. Interviewed by "Marca" in Buenos Aires, the 28-year-old Beninese goalkeeper acknowledged the exceptional nature of this match, while displaying an unambiguous determination: Messi remains an opponent to be faced.

When the possibility of seeing the Argentine captain benefit from a "gift" for this special evening was presented to him, particularly in the event of a penalty, Dandjinou did not hesitate.   "I am a goalkeeper and my role is to stop shots. Even if it's the last minute and there's a penalty, if Messi takes it, I'm going to try to stop it," he explained.

The Beninese goalkeeper obviously respects the immense career of the Argentinian star, but he refuses to let considerations related to the tribute take precedence over the competition.   “We are here to celebrate Messi, but nobody told us we should give him a goal. If he wants to score, he will have to do everything he can to achieve it,” he added.

The message is clear: Benin intends to capitalize on this historic match, but will not be content with a mere spectator role. Facing Messi and the Argentinian world champions, the Cheetahs want to fight for their chances to the very end.

For Marcel Dandjinou, this is also the perfect opportunity to test himself against one of the greatest players in history. And if Messi wants to end the evening on a high note, he'll first have to find a way past a Beninese goalkeeper who's determined to make things difficult for him.