The anticipation of watching Lionel Messi play on Argentine soil may be reaching its peak. Ahead of the 2026 World Cup, the Albiceleste captain will face a very special night at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. This clash is not just another three points in the CONMEBOL Qualifiers, but an historic event for fans.

When and where will this decisive match be played?

The match between Argentina and Venezuela is scheduled for Thursday, September 4, 2025, at the Más Monumental Stadium. Kickoff is set for 8:30 p.m. local time in Argentina. In the United States, the times will be:

• 7:30 p.m. ET
• 6:30 p.m. CT
• 5:30 p.m. MT
• 4:30 p.m. PT

According to reports from Claro Sports, AS and Infobae, the game was strategically arranged to give Messi a symbolic farewell on home soil during the World Cup qualifiers.

Why is this match so significant?

Messi himself admitted that this could be his final home qualifier in Argentina, turning the clash against Venezuela into a one-of-a-kind event.

“Being surrounded by my family at this moment makes it even more special,” the captain recently said.

Beyond the competitive aspect, Argentina has already secured its spot at the 2026 World Cup, meaning the value of this fixture lies mainly in its symbolism: the chance to say goodbye to their greatest idol in front of his home fans during qualifying.

The atmosphere around the Monumental

The excitement in Buenos Aires is overwhelming. The stadium that has hosted unforgettable Albiceleste moments will once again roar—this time as the setting for a farewell that promises to be emotional. For Argentina’s fans, it will be a night etched in history, celebrating Messi’s legacy in what may be his last home appearance in World Cup qualifiers.