Lionel Messi got emotional after playing his final competitive match in Argentina in a 3-0 World Cup qualifying win over Venezuela on Thursday at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, saying that finishing in front of his home fans was something he “always dreamed of.”
Messi scored two goals and Lautaro Martinez added another as the Argentina star signed off in style in his last official match in the country. When asked about whether he would play in the World Cup next summer in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, Messi responded that he hasn’t made a decision yet and will consider it in the coming months.
“There are so many emotions, I’ve experienced so many things in this field,” Messi said after the game. “It’s always a joy to play in Argentina with our people. We’ve been enjoying match after match for many years. I’m very happy; being able to finish in this way here is what I always dreamed of.
“For many years, I have had the affection of Barcelona, and my dream was to have it here, too, in my country with my people. For many years, a lot of things were said, but I’ll stick with the good. All the good things about the group that tried it were that they couldn’t get it and concentrate.
“Then, I was given it and some of the players in the roster and the past one. Everything we lived was beautiful. Today was the last one for points here.”
Argentina entered Thursday’s match leading the CONMEBOL standings with 35 points in 16 games, having already qualified for the 2026 World Cup. Messi expressed his desire to play in the World Cup but emphasized he will assess his physical condition before making a final decision on whether to participate.
