Lionel Messi delivered a magical performance in Buenos Aires, scoring twice as Argentina defeated Venezuela 3-0 in their final home match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The legendary forward confirmed that it would be his last World Cup qualifier on home soil, making the night unforgettable for Argentine fans.
Argentina, already qualified for the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, dominated the game from the first whistle. Messi opened the scoring in the 39th minute after a brilliant counter-attack from Julián Álvarez.
In the second half, Lautaro Martínez made it 2-0 with a diving header in the 76th minute, before Messi struck again just four minutes later, assisted by Thiago Almada.
“Being able to finish this way here with my people is what I always dreamed of,” Messi said after the match, visibly emotional.
Messi’s brace extended his record to 36 goals in South American qualifiers, further cementing his legacy.
Argentina’s Standings and Other Matches
Argentina lead the CONMEBOL standings with 38 points, heading to Ecuador for their final qualifier.
Venezuela, with 18 points, will face Colombia in a decisive playoff race.
Brazil moved to second place (28 points) after a 3-0 win over Chile.
Uruguay climbed to third (27 points) after beating Peru 3-0.
Ecuador dropped to fourth (26 points) after a draw with Paraguay, who sealed their first World Cup spot in 16 years.
Colombia secured qualification with a 3-0 victory over Bolivia.
With Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Colombia qualified, the last spots will be decided between Venezuela, Bolivia, and Chile.
