Football Report | Argentina 3 - 0 Venezuela

Emotional Messi scores twice in final match in Argentina

Lautaro Martinez also scored as the hosts beat Venezuela 3-0 in a World Cup qualifier in Buenos Aires.

Author | Jack L

Stadium | Estadio Mâs Monumental

Messi, 38, was joined by his three sons and received a standing ovation from a crowd of 80,000 in moving scenes before the match.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner captained Argentina to their third World Cup triumph in 2022 and has scored a record 114 goals in 194 games for his country.

A closer look at what happened

Lionel Messi opened the scoring at the Estadio Monumental, collecting a pass from Julián Álvarez before rifling into the top corner.

Argentina, already assured of their place at the 2026 World Cup and leading the South American qualifying table, extended their advantage through Lautaro Martínez’s diving header, with Messi adding a second soon after.

The 37-year-old, Argentina’s record appearance holder, admitted afterwards that he has yet to decide whether he will feature at the next World Cup.

Fans enjoyed the historical moment

Christopher watched the match on TV and enjoyed it: “If you are my age or older, being an Argentina supporter feels like a privilege. First came Diego Maradona, the greatest of the 1980s, whose brilliance defined a generation even if it lasted just a decade. Then followed two decades of Lionel Messi, a player of equal genius, crowned with a World Cup of his own.”

Daz had a similar experience, he told us: “Messi is what young kids aim for when in the streets / playgrounds, dribbling past players and then scoring. Messi did it at the top, most highest level, playing like he is on the streets. The elegance, flair and balance of such a small guy mesmerised an entire generation.”

Eugene is looking ahead to the summer, he told us: “If Messi is fit, healthy and willing to take part in another World Cup, it will be a treat for anyone who loves football. Regardless of what happens, we have been fortunate to witness soccer royalty at its very best. The fact that Argentina have produced two footballing geniuses who have guided them to the pinnacle of the game is extraordinary.”