Lionel Messi once again questioned whether he would play at the World Championship in 2026 and admitted that he had not yet decided to expand his international career to another tournament. 38-year-old man scored twice in Argentine victory 3-0 Above Venezuela in Buenos Aires on Thursday, at what he confirmed, his final World Cup qualifier was at home.
The ruling world champions, already qualified for a widespread tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada, have been dominant since the beginning of completion. Nicolas Tagliafico and Franco Mastantuono approached in the opening stages just to make Venezuela goalkeeper Rafael Romo rejected before Messi in the 39th minute broke the blocking.
Captain Albiceleste caught up with Julian Alvarez during a quick counterattack and fired into the upper right corner. After the break, Argentina’s relentless pressure was rewarded with the second goal in the 76th minute, when Nico Gonzalez exceeded the Lautaro Martinez from the left to score with a diving header. Four minutes later, Messi struck again, this time ending from Thiago Almad’s assistance to complete an unforgettable night.
“It’s not something I like, I want or expect. But there is a time and it’s been many years,” Messi said as he asked for retirement. “As I said, I don’t think I’ll play another World Cup. At my age it’s just logical to think not.”
The eight -time Ballon d’Or winner acknowledged that his decision would eventually depend on how he feels physically next year.
“Day after day I try to feel good and above all to be honest with myself. When I feel good, I use it. But if not, honestly, I don’t like it-and if it is, I wouldn’t be there. 2026, and then decide.”
He also reflected on the emotions of playing what was probably his last qualifying at home, a farewell that ended with two goals and the harsh applause from Buenos Aires.
“To be able to finish this way, it is what I always dreamed of – finally with my people. For many years I had affection for Barcelona, and my dream was to have it in my country,” he said. “It has been said a lot over the years, but I will maintain good moments when we built a group that tried, but it couldn’t win it all until it finally happened for me and a few of my generation. Everything we had was beautiful.”
Messi, who has now scored a record 36 goals in the South American World Cup, admitted that the idea of leaving the international scene is still difficult. But with the time of catching up, he insisted that he would continue only if he had the feeling that he could contribute to the highest level.
“For me, the most important thing is when I enjoy playing while I feel good. If not, I won’t push myself to be there just because of it,” he repeated.
The Argentine victory not only provided an emotional night for its captain, but also emphasized their status as solid candidates heading until 2026.
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Published:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
September 5, 2025
