It was an unforgettable night at the Estadio Monumental as Lionel Messi scored a brace in what could allegedly be his final competitive game on Argentine soil in style.
The game ended 3-0 in favor of Argentina to seal their World Cup qualifying victory over Venezuela on Thursday.
Messi delivered a vintage performance alongside Lautaro Martínez, who added the third goal, before being visibly moved as he addressed the fans.
“So Many Emotions” – Lionel Messi
After the match, Messi admitted he was overwhelmed by the occasion:
“There are so many emotions, I’ve experienced so many things on this field. It’s always a joy to play in Argentina with our people.”
“We’ve been enjoying match after match for many years. I’m very happy; being able to finish in this way here is what I always dreamed of.”
The Inter Miami star continued, stating that, although his heart wants him to continue, age and fitness will ultimately decide his World Cup future.
“Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it [to the 2026 World Cup],” Messi said.
“But well, we’re almost there, so I’m excited and motivated to play it. Like I always say, I go day by day, going by how I feel.”
Messi also reflected on how he had longed for the same love and admiration from his home crowd that he had received at Barcelona.
“For many years, I had the affection of Barcelona, and my dream was to have it here too, in my country with my people. For many years, a lot of things were said, but well, I’ll stay with all the good. Everything we lived was beautiful. Today was the last one for points here.”
No Final Qualifier — Lionel Messi to be Rested
Argentina, who have already sealed qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, will face Ecuador in Guayaquil in their last qualifier. Messi confirmed he will not play in that game:
“I spoke with [Argentina head coach Lionel] Scaloni, and he decided that I should rest, not travel to Ecuador because I’m recovering from a [hamstring] injury.”
“We prefer to avoid the trip and prepare for what’s coming up well-rested.”
Messi’s focus now turns to Inter Miami’s MLS campaign after the international break
The Road Ahead
While Argentina tops the CONMEBOL standings with 38 points from 17 matches, Messi insists he will take the coming months to see if he is fit enough for the World Cup.
“I’ll finish the season, then I’ll have preseason, and there will be six months left. So, we’ll see how I feel. Hopefully, I’ll have a good preseason in 2026 and finish this MLS season well, and then I’ll decide.”
Messi, Argentina’s all-time leading scorer and most-capped player, debuted at the 2006 World Cup as a teenager and finally fulfilled his lifelong dream by lifting the trophy in Qatar in 2022.
