Lionel Messi Scores Twice in Emotional Argentina Farewell

Lionel Messi made a big impact in what is likely his last game for Argentina in his home country. He scored two goals to help his team win 3-0 against Venezuela in Buenos Aires.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Argentina played Venezuela at the Estadio Monumental and took control early in the World Cup qualifying match. Messi scored his first goal in the 39th minute and added another in the 80th minute. Lautaro Martínez scored the team’s second goal in the 76th minute. The win was comfortable and fans saw Messi show his emotions as he played his final competitive match in Argentina. After the match, Messi told supporters that ending this way in front of his people was something he always dreamed of. He also suggested this would be his last official home match, thanked fans for their support and recalled many beautiful memories made with the national team over the years.

MESSI’S LEGACY AND ARGENTINA’S SEASON SO FAR

Messi remains Argentina’s all-time top scorer and most capped player. He made his debut in 2006 and helped win both the 2022 World Cup and multiple Copa América titles. Argentina have already qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and currently top the South American standings with 38 points. The national team have enjoyed a strong qualifying campaign, missing only a few key players recently due to injury, like Enzo Fernández and Lisandro Martínez. Messi’s performances continue to inspire, as he has scored 15 goals and provided 9 assists in 21 matches this season, adding to a long list of crucial moments for the team.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ARGENTINA AND MESSI?

Argentina will travel to Guayaquil to face Ecuador in their final match of the World Cup qualifying window. Messi has confirmed that he will not play in that fixture, making his appearance against Venezuela his final competitive appearance in front of Argentina fans. Ecuador, currently fourth in the standings with 25 points, pose a strong challenge but Argentina’s place at the 2026 World Cup is already guaranteed. Venezuela must win their last  game to have a chance of reaching the playoffs and will next face Colombia. As Argentina prepare for the next step without Messi at home, fans and players alike are left to reflect on the legacy of the country’s greatest player and his era of success.