World superstar Lionel Messi is set to play his last official match with the Argentina national team on home soil on Thursday night against Venezuela and his last official match in South America on September 9, 2025 against Ecuador in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The former Barcelona goal machine Messi had given his strongest hint that he will bid farewell to international football at next year’s FIFA World Cup.
Argentina, already assured of a place at the 2026 finals in the United States, Mexico and Canada, will host Venezuela on September 4 at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires before completing qualifying away to Ecuador on September 9.
Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has had a storied career with the Argentine national team, culminating in a victorious campaign at the 2021 Copa América and a historic win at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. This Friday’s match is expected to be an emotional farewell for both the player and his devoted fans, as it marks the end of an era for Argentine football.
As anticipation builds, supporters were urged to rally behind their team for what promises to be a memorable occasion. The clash against Venezuela will not only serve as a tribute to Messi’s illustrious career on home soil but also as a pivotal moment in the history of Argentine football.
“It (the Venezuela clash) is going to be a very, very special match for me because it’s the last qualifying match,” the 38-year-old forward told reporters after leading Inter Miami into the Leagues Cup final.
Messi said his family would be present for the Venezuela game and acknowledged it could be his last opportunity to appear in front of home fans.
