Lionel Messi received an emotional send-off in Buenos Aires after playing what appears to be his final competitive match in Argentina.
The 38-year-old scored twice in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Venezuela on Thursday, with Lautaro Martínez adding the other goal in their penultimate World Cup qualifier. A late attempt to secure a hat-trick was ruled out for offside, but the Inter Miami forward was visibly moved by the crowd’s ovation.
After the match, Messi described the farewell as something he had “always dreamed of,” reflecting on his long career with the national team. Fans in the stands bowed to the forward, who thanked them for their support throughout the years.
“There are so many emotions, I’ve experienced so many things on this field,” Messi said. “Being able to finish in this way here is what I always dreamed of.”
Messi had announced last week that the qualifiers against Venezuela and Ecuador would be his last in the competition. However, he did not confirm whether he would retire after the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, saying only: “We’ll see.”
The forward has scored eight goals in the current qualifying campaign, more than any other South American player. He also continues to perform at a high level for Inter Miami, scoring 27 goals and providing 11 assists in 34 appearances this season.
Messi admitted that while he is motivated to play at the next World Cup, his decision will depend on his fitness. “Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it. But we’re almost there, so I’m excited and motivated,” he said.
For now, Argentina fans are left to celebrate what could be the last glimpse of their captain in competitive action at home, marking the end of an era for one of football’s greatest players.
