Lionel Messi Scores Twice in Emotional Argentina Farewell Match/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Lionel Messi scored twice in a heartfelt home farewell as Argentina defeated Venezuela 3-0 in Buenos Aires. The match marked Messi’s final World Cup qualifier on home soil, drawing emotional tributes from fans. Argentina remains top of the standings, while Venezuela continues to fight for a playoff spot.
Messi’s Emotional Argentina Farewell: Quick Looks
- Messi scores two goals in final home qualifier appearance.
- Argentina defeats Venezuela 3-0 at Estadio Monumental.
- Lautaro Martínez adds third goal in 76th minute.
- Sellout crowd pays tribute to Argentina’s iconic captain.
- Messi holds record with 36 South American qualifying goals.
- World Cup 2030 qualifiers begin in 2027, when Messi turns 40.
- Venezuela still in playoff contention with 18 points.
- Messi remains undecided about 2026 World Cup participation.
Deep Look: Lionel Messi Scores Twice in Emotional Final Home Qualifier for Argentina
In what may be the final time Lionel Messi plays a World Cup qualifier on home soil, the legendary forward delivered a performance to remember. Scoring twice in front of a passionate and sold-out crowd at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, Messi led Argentina to a commanding 3-0 victory over Venezuela in Thursday night’s emotional farewell.
A Storybook Send-Off
The atmosphere inside Estadio Monumental was electric from the start, as fans gathered to say goodbye to their national hero. The match was more than just a qualifier — it was a celebration of Messi’s two-decade journey with the Argentina national team. With chants echoing his name and banners thanking him for his contributions, the stage was set for a fitting send-off.
And Messi delivered.
He found the net twice — first in the 39th minute and again in the 80th minute — reminding the world why he remains one of the sport’s all-time greats. His second goal, a beautifully timed finish from inside the box, brought the crowd to its feet one last time on home turf.
“Being able to finish this way here is what I’ve always dreamed of,” said Messi 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.”
Record-Breaking Numbers
With his brace, Messi extended his record as the leading scorer in South American World Cup qualifiers, now with 36 goals. His closest competitors — Inter Miami teammate Luis Suárez with 29 and Bolivia’s Marcelo Moreno Martins with 22 — are no longer active in continental qualifiers.
Though he remains noncommittal about retirement, Messi acknowledged the physical demands of the sport and hinted that any decision about playing in the 2026 World Cup will come closer to the event.
“I’m excited, eager. It’s day by day, feeling the sensations,” he said. “If I feel good, I enjoy it; if not, I’d rather not be there. There are still nine months until the tournament — that’s a long time.”
Argentina Tops the Table
Already qualified for the next World Cup, Argentina continues to dominate the CONMEBOL qualifying table. With this win, they increased their tally to 38 points, ensuring they will finish first in the standings no matter what happens in the final round.
The team has shown consistent dominance throughout this cycle, proving why they’re not only defending champions but also early favorites for the next tournament.
Lautaro Martínez added the third goal in the 76th minute, rounding out a clinical performance from Argentina. The victory not only solidified their top spot but also served as a symbolic passing of the torch as younger players prepare to carry the legacy forward.
Venezuela’s World Cup Dreams Still Alive
For Venezuela, the match was a setback, but not the end of the road. Despite the loss, they remain in contention for a potential intercontinental playoff spot with 18 points, sitting in seventh place on the standings.
With one final round remaining, Venezuela must secure a strong result and hope other outcomes swing in their favor. Still aiming to qualify for their first-ever FIFA World Cup, the team has shown improvement throughout this cycle.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.