Barcelona legend Lionel Messi played his final competitive home game for Argentina as the Albiceleste defeated Venezuela 3-0 in their last 2026 World Cup Qualifier at the Monumental in Buenos Aires.
Messi, who is expected to retire from international football after next year’s World Cup, was surrounded by his entire family and many close friends at the stadium to watch his farewell match. He appeared emotional during the warm-up and experienced the national anthem for the final time at home with his children on the pitch by his side.
Messi’s Memorable Performance for Home Fans
As the game commenced, the GOAT gave his home fans one last thrilling performance. The first of his two goals was almost comical, as he received a pass from Julián Alvarez inside the box and lobbed the ball past the goalkeeper and three Venezuelan defenders who watched as the ball soared over their heads into the net.
Messi’s second goal came in the second half. This time, it was much simpler as Thiago Almada provided him a tap-in from short range to double his tally.
The perfect end to Messi’s final home game was almost secured with a spectacular chip over the keeper to complete his hat-trick. However, Leo was just offside, and the goal was disallowed.
An Unforgettable Night for the Greatest
The final whistle marked the end of an unforgettable night for the greatest footballer who ever lived, finishing his home career with yet another reminder of his brilliance, even at the age of 38.
While next year’s World Cup will probably be his true farewell, Argentina fans have now seen him for the last time at the Monumental. And it was just as perfect as the first. For fans of FC Barcelona, Messi remains a beacon of excellence and inspiration, forever etched in the annals of football history.
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