Lionel Messi Prepares for Final Home World Cup Qualifier with Argentina
Lionel Messi, the celebrated Argentine footballer, approaches a memorable moment in his illustrious career. He has announced that the upcoming World Cup qualifying match against Venezuela, to be held in Buenos Aires, is likely his last home qualifier representing Argentina. The 38-year-old forward spoke on August 28, 2025, after helping Inter Miami reach the Leagues Cup final.
Argentina secured its place in the 2026 World Cup well before this fixture. The match will take place at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires next Thursday, marking the penultimate round of South American qualifiers. Argentina’s final qualifier is scheduled for September 9 against Ecuador, away from home.
Messi indicated that this qualifier holds special meaning for him. “It’s going to be a very, very special match for me because it’s the last qualifying match,” he said. He shared that his family will join him for the occasion, including his wife, children, parents, and siblings. Messi also noted uncertainty about any future friendlies or matches he may play after this game.
While Messi has not formally fixed his retirement date, he has suggested he plans to step back from international football after the 2026 World Cup. Argentina will enter the tournament as the defending champions following their victory in Qatar in 2022. The next World Cup qualifiers for 2030 will start in 2027, at which time Messi will be 40 years old.
CONMEBOL, the South American football confederation, acknowledged Messi’s likely final chapter in qualifying with a social media post calling this “the last dance.”
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) is making arrangements for this momentous event by increasing ticket prices for the home match. Tickets range from approximately $100 for the least expensive seats to $500 for premium locations.
Fans and the football community worldwide anticipate an emotional farewell to one of the game’s greats during the Buenos Aires qualifier. As Messi nears the end of his international career, his contributions to Argentine football remain deeply valued.
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