Already qualified for the World Cup, Argentina will face Venezuela tomorrow at the Monumental Stadium.
What seems like an ordinary match in the 17th round of the South American World Cup qualifiers may turn out to be one of the most significant days in Argentina’s football history. For Lionel Messi, it marks his final official match on home soil.
No More Matches at Home
After this game, Argentina will not play any more official matches at home before the opening of the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Many believe that this World Cup could mark Messi’s final appearance on the international stage.
In the last round of South American qualifiers, Argentina will play away against Ecuador. During their World Cup preparations, all of their friendlies are also scheduled to take place abroad.
Messi’s Farewell
Due to scheduling constraints, the match against Venezuela has been officially confirmed as Messi’s final home appearance. For Argentine fans, this game holds irreplaceable significance; it will be Messi’s farewell on home turf.
Messi’s Response: Family Will Be There
In an interview last week, when asked whether this would indeed be his last home match for Argentina, Messi did not deny it. He replied: “Yes, this will be an important game, and my family will be there.”
“We will go through this moment in a very special way. As for what will happen in the future, I don’t know yet. But we will face this match with expectation.”
After years of criticism and setbacks, Messi finally led Argentina to the summit of world football in 2022. His career with the Albiceleste has always carried an unparalleled aura of legend.
When the final whistle blows at the Monumental, it will not only mark the end of a 90-minute match, but also symbolise the closing chapter of a 20-year legend on Argentine soil.
Spotlight on South America
Because of Messi’s brilliance, this match has overshadowed all the other qualifiers in South America.
Uruguay will host Peru, with 24 points and sitting fourth in the standings, Uruguay only need a draw to secure their World Cup spot. Paraguay, also on 24 points, will qualify if they manages a draw against Ecuador.
Colombia, meanwhile, with 22 points, will have a chance to qualify if they defeats Bolivia. As for Brazil, their home match against already eliminated Chile is little more than a formality.
A Farewell Beyond Football
As this game ends, Argentine fans will witness Messi’s final curtain call on home soil. Whatever the future holds, his two-decade journey with the Albiceleste has long transcended football matches, becoming one of the most indelible memories in the history of Argentina and world football.
