A Special Farewell in Buenos Aires

On September 4, Argentina will host Venezuela at River Plate’s Monumental. Beyond the World Cup 2026 qualifying points, the match is set to be historic: it could be Lionel Messi’s final qualifier on Argentine soil. The captain himself admitted weeks ago: “It will be a very special match for me because it’s the last in the qualifiers. I don’t know if there will be friendlies afterward, but this one will be different, and that’s why my whole family will be there with me.”

At 38, with a career full of trophies, Messi faces an emotional farewell. A packed Monumental with more than 80,000 fans is preparing to honor the man who ended Argentina’s title drought and brought glory with the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 Finalissima, and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

The Venezuelan Threat

But the night won’t be easy. Venezuela arrives needing vital points to keep their 2026 World Cup hopes alive, and coach Fernando Batista sent a bold warning: “We’re going to face the best team in the world. We know it could be Leo’s last qualifier in Argentina, but we’re here to compete. My idea is always to attack, not defend. I’m here to ruin Messipalooza, in a good way.”

The Argentine coach of La Vinotinto also praised Lionel Scaloni’s work: “Beyond Messi, Argentina’s structure works. This is a team that doesn’t depend on just one player.” His words show Venezuela won’t settle for being mere spectators of this historic night.

Messi, Between Emotion and History

Meanwhile, the Rosario-born legend will try to add another milestone to his legacy: becoming the player with the most appearances in Conmebol World Cup qualifiers. A farewell full of symbolism, where football will blend with the emotions of a grateful nation.