On September 4, 2025, over 80,000 passionate Argentina fans filled the Estadio Más Monumental in Buenos Aires to bid an emotional farewell to their beloved captain, Lionel Messi, in what was likely his final World Cup qualifier on home soil. The Albiceleste secured a commanding 3-0 victory against Venezuela, with Messi scoring twice and Lautaro Martínez adding one, capping a night filled with tributes and heartfelt moments.
A Historic Night at Estadio Más Monumental
The match against Venezuela, part of the 17th round of the CONMEBOL World Cup 2026 qualifiers, was more than just a game for Argentina. With their qualification for the 2026 World Cup already secured, the focus was on celebrating Lionel Messi, the 38-year-old football legend who has transformed the nation’s football history. Fans packed the stadium, waving flags, chanting Messi’s name, and preparing mosaics to honor their hero. The emotional weight of the occasion was palpable, as Messi himself hinted that this could be his last competitive match in Buenos Aires.
Before kickoff, Messi walked onto the pitch with his children, Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro, receiving a thunderous ovation from the crowd. Cameras captured the Argentine captain visibly moved, wiping away tears during the warm-up as fans showered him with love. This heartfelt reception set the tone for a night that blended football brilliance with deep sentiment.
Messi’s Masterclass: Two Goals Seal the Victory
Argentina dominated the match from the start, showcasing their trademark flair under coach Lionel Scaloni. In the 39th minute, Messi opened the scoring with a clinical finish. The play began with Leandro Paredes threading a precise pass to Julián Álvarez, who set up Messi for a delicate chip over Venezuela’s goalkeeper Rafael Romo. The crowd erupted, celebrating the moment as if it were a final.
After halftime, Argentina extended their lead. Lautaro Martínez headed in a goal from a Nicolás González cross, following a quick free-kick by Messi. Later, Thiago Almada delivered a perfect cut-back pass, allowing Messi to slot home his second goal of the night, sealing the 3-0 victory and his 113th international goal. Venezuela struggled to respond, failing to register a single shot on target, while Argentina’s young talents, like Franco Mastantuono, impressed alongside their captain.
Fans Celebrate Messi’s Legacy
After the final whistle, the atmosphere turned into a festival of gratitude. Supporters waved banners, lit flares, and sang songs dedicated to Messi’s journey with Argentina—from his debut in 2005 to lifting the FIFA World Cup in Qatar 2022.
The entire Argentina crowd chant and bow down to Lionel Messi ❤️🐐 pic.twitter.com/DP4KeYxSdW
— george (@StokeyyG2) September 5, 2025
What’s Next for Argentina?
With World Cup 2026 qualifiers underway, Argentina remains one of the strongest teams in South America. Whether Messi continues to play or decides to retire, the squad led by Lionel Scaloni looks set to remain competitive, with talents like Julián Álvarez, Lautaro Martínez, and Enzo Fernández ready to carry forward his legacy.
