Standing opposite the legendary number 10 was Sessi D'Almeida, a defensive midfielder currently playing for Neftci PFK in the Azerbaijan Premier League. Speaking Spanish sentence by sentence, D'Almeida surprised Messi with a series of gifts: a letter, a rose, and a statue rich in meaning.

Sessi D'Almeida (left) presents Lionel Messi with the Amazon Warrior statue before the Argentina – Benin friendly match at El Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina, on 6/10/2026. *Photo: TyC Sports*

This miniature statue was more than a mere courtesy souvenir. It is a precise scaled replica of the Amazon Warrior monument in Cotonou, Benin's economic capital and most populous city. The monument honors the Dahomey female warriors (known locally as Agojie), the only all-female military force recorded in world history, who fought to protect the ancient Kingdom of Danxome (present-day Benin) in the 19th century. They symbolize the strength, courage, and indomitable resilience of women.

However, the most touching detail lies in the true purpose of the gift. Argentine newspaper Clarin revealed that this artwork was not solely for Messi, but intended for his partner, Antonela Roccuzzo. Benin presented "La Pulga" with this ancient protective female warrior statue, conveying the message that the woman in his life, his steadfast support, is the "warrior protecting the king."

The Amazon Warrior statue being prepared for its inauguration in 2022 in Cotonou, Benin. *Photo: Government Portal of the Republic of Benin*

The content of the letter sent to Messi was later revealed through the Benin sports portal Joueurs Beninois. Specifically, it was a formal letter from the Government of the Republic of Benin, addressed to both Messi and his wife, mentioning the significance of the Amazon Warrior statue.

"On the occasion of this historic encounter, the nation of Benin wishes to present you and your wife with one of the most invaluable symbols of our national heritage: the Amazon Warrior statue, a gift specifically for Mrs. Antonela," the letter began.

"In the history and spirit of our nation, the image of the Amazon Warrior represents dedicated, courageous, resilient, and determined women – those who have preserved the memory and greatness of Benin," the letter continued. "By presenting this artwork, we wish to honor the strong woman who accompanies you: a solid foundation that nurtures, preserves, and inspires you daily throughout your extraordinary journey."

The letter from the Government of the Republic of Benin to Messi and his wife Antonela Roccuzzo. *Photo: Joueurs Beninois*

"This statue carries a piece of our nation's soul to you and your wife. If one day you and Mrs. Antonela wish to explore Benin, a nation where the people share a common passion for football and your name always evokes admiration and fervent enthusiasm, rest assured that you will always be welcomed with all the sincerity, warmth, and inherent hospitality of our country."

"May this Amazon Warrior statue forever be a testament to the admiration, gratitude, and enduring friendship of the Beninese people for you and your wife," the letter concluded.

The original Amazon monument is one of Benin's most iconic artworks. Inaugurated in 2022, the structure stands 30 meters tall, weighs 150 tons, and is cast in bronze. Designed by Chinese sculptor Li Xiangqun, the artwork is located opposite the Presidential Palace of Benin and is currently the second tallest statue in Africa.

Messi (center) poses for a commemorative photo with Sessi D'Almeida (left) and Steve Mounie (right) before the Argentina – Benin friendly match at El Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina, on 6/10/2026. *Photo: TyC Sports*

The moment Messi held the gifts, posing for a commemorative photo before kickoff with D'Almeida, gained additional significance due to the presence of another individual. Holding a white t-shirt printed with the Benin flag and the message "Un Monde de Splendeurs" ("A World of Splendors", the country's tourism promotion slogan) – another gift for Messi – was striker Steve Mounie, the captain of the Benin national team.

Mounie was injured but traveled a long distance to Argentina solely to accompany the team for this historic match. The day before, speaking with BBC Sport, the former Montpellier and Huddersfield Town striker stated that he had personally purchased his flight ticket to Argentina to support his teammates.

*Hoang Thong compiled*