Lionel Messi scored twice as Argentina beat Venezuela 3-0 on Thursday in the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s final home World Cup qualifier.
Messi has not given an indication as to when he plans to retire but the 38-year-old has said the match against Venezuela will be his last World Cup qualifier on home soil.
The reigning World Cup champion, which has already qualified for next year’s tournament in North America, controlled proceedings from the opening whistle, creating chances through Nicolas Tagliafico and Franco Mastantuono only to be thwarted by Venezuela goalkeeper Rafael Romo.
HIGHLIGHTS | ARG 3-0 VEN
Messi broke the deadlock in the 39th minute, the Argentine captain latching onto a pass from Julian Alvarez on a swift counter-attack and firing home into the top-right corner of Romo’s net.
Argentina maintained its relentless pressure in the second half, with Messi remaining the focal point of its attack, but the host had to wait until the 76th minute for a second goal, Nico Gonzalez delivering from the left for Lautaro Martinez to score with a diving header.
Four minutes later, Messi capped off another excellent performance with a third goal, assisted by Thiago Almada.
The Albiceleste top the South American qualifying table for the 2026 World Cup in North America with 38 points and visit Ecuador on Tuesday in their final group match.
Venezuela will look to keep its qualifying hopes alive when it hosts Colombia.
Published on Sep 05, 2025
Content Source: sportstar.thehindu.com