Argentine forward, Messi who is yet to give any clues on the date of his retirement from top flight football put up a stunning performance to guarantee Argentina’s place in the World Cup next year. The 30 year old scored twice on Thursday against Venezuela in what seems to be his last appearance with Argentina’s national team. He made sure he left good memories of playing a home qualifier giving his team a memorable win over Venezuela.
“Being able to finish this way here is what I’ve always dreamed of, I’ve experienced a lot of things on this pitch, both good and not so good, but it’s always a joy to play in Argentina, in front of our fans,” said Messi.
Estadio Monumental was at maximum capacity to bid him farewell. Messi opened scoring in the 39th minute with a wonderful pass from Julian Alvarez. The Argentine skipper almost doubled the lead for his side but was denied by goalkeeper. With 14 minutes left on regular playing time, Lautaro Martinez was able to grab a second goal for Argentina by flicking home a setup from Gonzalez. Messi was able to wrap things up in the 80th minute through a nicely worked team goal.
It is yet to be ascertained if this will be the end of Messi’s football in Argentina. Messi clarified speculations that he will only feature in the World Cup next year if he’s physically fit, “I’m excited, eager. It’s day by day feeling the sensations. If I feel good, I enjoy it, if not, I’d rather not be there,” he said also highlighting that that the nine months to the start of the tournament was a long time.
Argentina’s qualifier run
The World Cup champions who have already qualified extended their tally to 38 points following the Venezuela encounter and will remain atop on the qualifying standings regardless of the outcome of the last round of games next Tuesday.
Argentina will get on the road to take on Ecuador next to mark the end of their World Cup qualifying run for 2026. Lionel Messi will miss the game due to a recent injury, and Argentina, having already secured a spot in the 2026, will complete the qualifying campaign with an away game against Ecuador on September 9, 2025.
