In the final match on home turf, Lionel Messi demonstrates powerful emotions and scores twice for Argentina
Argentina has secured a spot in next summer's World Cup, which will be held in the United States, following a 3-0 victory over Venezuela. The team's star player, Lionel Messi, scored twice in the match, with Lautaro Martinez also finding the back of the net.
Messi, who is Argentina's all-time most-capped player and highest scorer, expressed joy at playing in front of his home fans. However, he hinted that he may not participate in the World Cup due to his age. In an interview with TyC Sports, Messi stated that he has dreams of finishing his career on home soil.
Messi's goals in the match were sandwiched around a Martinez header. An offside flag denied Martinez a hat-trick in the match. The victory marked Messi's final competitive match for Argentina on home soil.
The World Cup will be a tournament that Argentina will defend their title in, having won the last edition in 2014. Alongside Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Colombia, Paraguay, and Ecuador have also qualified as automatic qualifiers from South America.
Venezuela currently hold a one-point lead over Bolivia in the fight for a play-off spot. Colombia marked their qualification with a 3-0 win over Bolivia, with James Rodriguez scoring to become the country's top scorer in World Cup qualifiers with 14 goals. Uruguay also marked their qualification with a 3-0 win over Peru.
Meanwhile, Brazil beat Chile 3-0 in their match, while Paraguay and Ecuador drew 0-0. The qualification of these teams leaves just one spot remaining for a South American team in the World Cup.
Despite speculation about his future involvement in international football, Messi is most likely to coach the Argentina national football team at the 2026 World Cup. Argentina remains highly ranked in world football, further supporting this likelihood. However, no definitive decision regarding Messi's participation in the tournament has been made public.
Read also:
- Stopping Osteoporosis Treatment: Timeline Considerations
- Tobacco industry's suggested changes on a legislative modification are disregarded by health journalists
- Trump's Policies: Tariffs, AI, Surveillance, and Possible Martial Law
- Expanded Community Health Involvement by CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur, Maintained Through Consistent Outreach Programs Across Rajasthan
