Lionel Messi delivered another masterclass for Argentina, scoring twice in a 3-0 victory over Venezuela at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.
While the night was filled with joy for fans celebrating their captain’s brilliance, emotions ran high as Messi hinted that his World Cup journey may soon reach its end.
At 38, the Inter Miami forward admitted that the 2026 World Cup—just nine months away—remains uncertain for him. “In the past, I said it was unlikely I’d play a World Cup at 39. It’s close, but it’s also a long time,” he told reporters. “I love this, I never want it to end, but I know the moment is coming.”
The Argentina skipper grew emotional, calling Thursday’s game possibly his last competitive home match. “It’s always a joy to play here, with our people. I’ve lived so many emotions on this field, and finishing this way is something I always dreamed of,” Messi reflected, recalling both the love of Barcelona and his desire to feel that same connection in his homeland.
Argentina, already leading the CONMEBOL standings with 35 points, has secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Despite that, head coach Lionel Scaloni chose to rest his captain for the next qualifier against Ecuador, mindful of his recent injuries.
“Same as I said before, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it,” Messi admitted, though he quickly added, “But we’re almost there, and I’m motivated. I go day by day, seeing how I feel.”
With a legacy spanning from his debut in 2006 to lifting the trophy in 2022, the world waits to see if football’s greatest star will make one final bow on the grandest stage.