The number 10, immortalized by Lionel Messi wearing Argentina's jersey, will be the symbol of the first major tribute from the country's football to the star since he announced his retirement from the national team. This weekend, matches in different categories will be interrupted at 10 minutes of the first half for one minute of applause in recognition of the career of the greatest recent idol of the Albiceleste.
The initiative was announced by the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and will cover all local competitions, men's and women's, including field football, futsal, and beach soccer. The tribute is also planned for the showdown between Vélez Sarsfield and Boca Juniors, in the Copa Argentina.
In stadiums that have big screens, the program will also include the screening of an institutional video prepared by the AFA before the start of matches. The stoppage at 10 minutes of the first half represents a direct reference to the jersey number worn by Messi throughout his career with the Argentine national team.
