Emotional Messi scores twice in final match in Argentina

 

Lionel Messi delivered an emotional performance as he scored twice in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Venezuela in a World Cup qualifier in Buenos Aires. The 38-year-old, playing what is widely expected to be his final competitive match on Argentine soil, was joined on the pitch before kick-off by his three sons. In front of a capacity crowd of 80,000 at Estadio Monumental, Messi was greeted with thunderous applause and a standing ovation.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has enjoyed a glittering international career, including captaining Argentina to their third World Cup triumph in 2022. He has scored a record 114 goals in 194 appearances for his country, making him both Argentina’s most-capped player and all-time top scorer. Reflecting on the occasion, Messi admitted the emotions were overwhelming, describing the farewell as something he had long dreamed of. He said his wish had always been to feel the same affection in Argentina that he received at Barcelona, and the moment finally brought that dream to life. The victory keeps Argentina top of the South American qualifying table and already qualified for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

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The match itself saw Messi once again provide the decisive moments. He opened the scoring after latching onto a pass from Julian Alvarez and firing into the top corner, before Lautaro Martinez doubled Argentina’s lead with a diving header. Messi then added his second goal of the night to seal the 3-0 win, delighting the home crowd who celebrated every touch as if it were a farewell.

Speaking afterward, Messi remained uncertain about his participation in the 2026 World Cup. He explained that while he still enjoys playing when he feels good, he will not continue if he feels he cannot perform at the required level. The forward emphasized that he wants to be honest with himself and the team, leaving open the possibility of retiring from international duty before the next tournament.

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Despite the uncertainty about his future, the night was a celebration of one of the greatest players in football history. The image of Messi standing alongside his sons Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro before kick-off was one of the most powerful of the evening, underlining his personal and professional legacy. For Argentina fans, the evening marked a fitting tribute to their greatest icon.