Lionel Messi will play his final home match in World Cup qualifiers on September 4 at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, when Argentina faces Venezuela, as confirmed by the captain of the Albiceleste himself.
In an interview with Apple TV, following Inter Miami's victory over Orlando City (3-1) in the semifinals of the Leagues Cup, the forward stated that it will be a special night.
"Yes, it’s going to be a very special match for me because it’s the last one of the qualifiers. I don’t know if there will be friendlies or more matches afterwards," he stated, clearing up any doubts about his continuation in this type of tournament.
Argentina, already comfortably qualified for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, leads the table with 35 points, ten more than its pursuers Ecuador and Brazil.
For this reason, the matches against Venezuela and Ecuador are experienced without competitive pressure, but with a strong emotional emphasis.
Messi revealed that he will spend the day with his family: “My wife, my children, and my parents will be with me. We are going to experience it that way. After that, I don’t know what will happen, but that is our intention.”
The star of Inter Miami, world champion in Qatar 2022, adds to his achievements with Argentina two Copa América titles (2021 and 2024), the Finalissima 2022, and multiple club titles, including seven Ballon d'Or awards, four Champions League titles with Barcelona, and local trophies with PSG and Inter Miami.
With the match against Vinotinto, Messi concludes a historic chapter in the South American qualifiers, while awaiting his decision regarding his future after the 2026 World Cup.
Frequently asked questions about Messi's last match in the World Cup qualifiers with Argentina
When and where will Lionel Messi play his last qualifying match with Argentina?
Lionel Messi will play his last World Cup qualifying match on September 4 at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, facing Venezuela. This match will be particularly significant, as it will mark the end of his participation in these tournaments at home with the Argentine national team.
What is Argentina's situation in the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup?
Argentina is already qualified for the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada 2026, leading the table with 35 points, ten more than their closest rivals Ecuador and Brazil. This allows the remaining matches to be played without competitive pressure, giving a more emotional tone to the games.
What has Messi said about his future after the 2026 World Cup?
Lionel Messi has not defined what he will do after the 2026 World Cup. In his statements, he mentioned that after the qualifiers, he is uncertain whether there will be more friendlies or matches, leaving his future up in the air while awaiting upcoming decisions.
How has Messi's career been with Inter Miami and what has been his impact on the team?
Since his arrival at Inter Miami, Messi has been instrumental in the club's transformation and success. His leadership has propelled the team to improve its performance in MLS and achieve notable international performances, establishing Inter Miami as an emerging powerhouse in club football. Furthermore, Messi is expected to be part of the opening of the team's new stadium in 2026, which represents a significant goal for the management.
Filed under:
