Lionel Messi got emotional after playing his final competitive match in Argentina, leading his team to a 3-0 World Cup qualifying win over Venezuela at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. The Argentina captain scored twice, while Lautaro Martínez added another goal. Messi said that finishing in front of home fans was something he “always dreamed of.”
“There are so many emotions, I’ve experienced so many things on this field,” Messi said after the game. “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.”
Messi Reflects on His Journey
Messi highlighted the affection he received throughout his career and compared it with his long association at Barcelona.
“For many years, I have 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. All the good with the group that tried it couldn’t get it and concentrate.
“Then, I was given it and some of the players in the roster and the past one. Everything we lived was beautiful. Today was the last one for points here.”
Future World Cup Decision Still Open
Argentina had already secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with 35 points from 16 matches. Messi, who is Argentina’s all-time top scorer and most-capped player, admitted that while he desires to play in the World Cup, his decision will depend on his fitness.
“Same as I said before about the World Cup that I don’t think I’ll play another. Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it,” the Inter Miami star 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.
“I’m trying to feel good and, above all, being honest with myself. When I feel good, I enjoy it, but when I don’t, honestly, I don’t have a good time, so I prefer not to be there if I don’t feel good. So we’ll see. I haven’t made a decision about the World Cup.”
Messi added that he would assess his condition after the current MLS season and preseason ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Messi’s Legacy with Argentina
Messi made his World Cup debut in 2006 at just 18 years old. He led Argentina to the 2014 final and eventually fulfilled his lifelong dream by lifting the trophy in 2022 in Qatar. His final home qualifier marks the end of an era for La Albiceleste fans.
Argentina will now face Ecuador in Guayaquil in their last fixture of this international window. Messi confirmed he will not participate in that match.
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