Lionel Messi marked what is believed to be his final World Cup qualifier on home soil with a dazzling performance as Argentina beat Venezuela 3-0 in Buenos Aires on Thursday night.
The packed Estadio Monumental erupted as the 38-year-old captain scored twice, in the 39th and 80th minutes, while Lautaro Martínez added another in the 76th. Messi came close to a hat-trick late on, but his effort was ruled out for offside.
“Being able to finish this way here is what I’ve always dreamed of,” Messi said after the match. “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.”
Though his goals secured the win, the moment that left fans in awe came from a single pass. Under pressure in midfield, Messi rolled the ball under his foot before sending a precise, defence-splitting pass to Nico González.
The forward failed to convert, but the brilliance of the assist attempt reminded supporters of why Messi is still regarded as the world’s finest.
The Argentine star now has 36 goals in South American World Cup qualifiers, extending his record as the region’s all-time top scorer.
His long-time rival Luis Suárez of Uruguay retired from international duty with 29 goals.
Attention has already shifted to Messi’s future. He acknowledged uncertainty about competing in the 2026 World Cup, saying his participation will depend on his physical condition.
“Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it,” he said. “But we’re almost there, so I’m excited and motivated. Day by day, match by match, I’ll see how I feel.”
Manager Lionel Scaloni has been gradually preparing for a future without Messi, giving opportunities to younger players such as Julián Álvarez and Thiago Almada.
Even so, Thursday’s display showed that the veteran remains central to Argentina’s hopes.
For the world champions, bidding farewell to their captain at home was a moment filled with emotion. Yet as Messi’s future hangs in the balance, Argentina must now face the daunting question of how to defend their World Cup crown without him.