Here's the actual reason
As Messi retirement happened so suddenly AFA only had a few weeks to organize a stadium, design a special tribute kit, and find an opponent willing to travel. Many of the big teams have their busy schedule in October. Then they also didn't want it competitive because AFA is organizing this match as celebration party and to pay a grand tribute to Messi.
Benin was available, and was willing to travel on short notice and play it in relaxed atmosphere like celebration friendly match.
Another reason is AFA can have maximum revenue out of this.
So, I guess all reasons fits.
As Messi retirement happened so suddenly AFA only had a few weeks to organize a stadium, design a special tribute kit, and find an opponent willing to travel. Many of the big teams have their busy schedule in October. Then they also didn't want it competitive because AFA is organizing this match as celebration party and to pay a grand tribute to Messi.
Benin was available, and was willing to travel on short notice and play it in relaxed atmosphere like celebration friendly match.
Another reason is AFA can have maximum revenue out of this.
So, I guess all reasons fits.



