In the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers, Argentina delivered a stellar performance, defeating Venezuela 3-0. However, the scene before the match was deeply emotional for everyone, as it was possibly Lionel Messi's last game on his home turf.
Sports News: Lionel Messi's name in the world of football is not just that of a player, but an emotion. The match between Argentina and Venezuela in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers further deepened this emotion. As over 80,000 spectators watched Messi play on his home ground, perhaps for the last time, at Buenos Aires' Monumental Stadium, the atmosphere turned emotional.
Argentina won the match 3-0, with Messi scoring two goals and Lautaro Martínez scoring one. However, Messi's tears, which hinted that this might be his last match on home soil, garnered more attention than the victory.
Last Time on Home Soil?
Messi has not made any official announcement regarding his retirement yet. However, there are continuous speculations that this match against Venezuela could be his last international appearance on home soil. Argentina has already qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the team is currently at the top of the CONMEBOL standings.
- Argentina: 38 points (12 wins, 2 draws, 3 losses)
- Venezuela: 18 points (seventh position)
It is noteworthy that the top six teams directly qualify for the World Cup, while the seventh and eighth placed teams secure a ticket to the Intercontinental Playoff.
Messi's First Goal – A Brilliant Chip Shot
Argentina's dominance was evident in the first half. After evading two defenders, Julián Álvarez passed the ball to Messi. Without wasting any time, Messi chipped the ball over the goalkeeper to score, making it 1-0. At the beginning of the second half, Thiago Almada rapidly broke through Venezuela's defense and got the ball to Messi. Messi, once again showcasing his experience, put the ball into the empty net for his second goal. Argentina now held a b 2-0 lead.
The third and final goal of the match was scored by Lautaro Martínez. He seized the opportunity and slotted the ball into the net, giving Argentina an unassailable 3-0 lead. Following this, the spectators in the stadium chanted Messi's name along with cheers for Argentina's victory.
Tears in Messi's Eyes
The tears in Messi's eyes after the victory touched the hearts of millions of fans. The entire crowd erupted with chants of "Messi, Messi." This moment made the match feel like a potential farewell. Even though no official announcement has been made, this scene indicates that Messi is now moving towards the final stage of his illustrious career.
Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay Also Qualify
Other South American teams also performed impressively in this round.
- Uruguay: Qualified for the 2026 World Cup by defeating Peru 3-0. Rodrigo Aguirre gave the early lead with a superb header.
- Colombia: Beat Bolivia 3-0.
- Paraguay: Secured their World Cup ticket by drawing 0-0 against Ecuador.
Coach Marcelo Bielsa's experience was crucial behind Uruguay's victory. The 70-year-old Bielsa is taking a team to the World Cup for the third time. Previously, he had also led Argentina (2002) and Chile (2010) to the World Cup.
