Messi Likely Plays Final Home Game as Argentina Host Venezuela

Defending world champions Argentina are set to host Venezuela in an important qualifying match for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The game is scheduled for Thursday, September 4, at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. Fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the match, as it could be Lionel Messi’s final game in Argentina with the national team.

Messi’s Special Occasion

Lionel Messi, one of the greatest footballers of all time, has said that this match will be very special for him. Speaking in a post-game interview on August 27, the 38-year-old football star shared that it might be his last match in his home country during World Cup qualifiers.

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Messi also revealed that his family will be present to support him. His wife, children, parents, and siblings are expected to attend, along with his wife’s family. The presence of his loved ones makes this occasion even more meaningful for Messi.

A few days earlier, Messi enjoyed a victory with Inter Miami against Orlando City in the semifinals of the Leagues Cup, which has kept him in great form ahead of this match.

Argentina’s Status in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

Argentina, the reigning 2022 FIFA World Cup champions, has already qualified for the 2026 World Cup. This means that the team can play without pressure, but they will still want to perform well in front of their home fans.

Venezuela, on the other hand, has a lot to play for. The team is aiming for a spot in the inter-confederation playoffs, which gives them a reason to fight hard in Buenos Aires. Venezuela’s players will be looking to challenge Argentina and make a mark in South American football.

Head-to-Head Record: Argentina vs Venezuela

Argentina has a strong record against Venezuela in football history. The two teams have faced each other 29 times, with Argentina winning 24 of those matches. Venezuela has managed to win only two times, and three matches ended in draws.

Argentina has scored a total of 96 goals in these encounters, while Venezuela has scored only 19 goals. Venezuela first managed to defeat Argentina 1-0 in 2011 during a World Cup qualifying match. The last time Venezuela was ahead of Argentina in a match was a 3-1 friendly win in Madrid in 2019.

These statistics show the dominance of Argentina over Venezuela, making the match both exciting and challenging for the Venezuelan team.

Expected Lineups

Argentina

Argentina’s squad is expected to feature a strong lineup:

• Goalkeeper: Martinez

• Defenders: Molina, Romero, Otamendi, Medina

• Midfielders: De Paul, Paredes, Palacios

• Attackers: Messi, Alvarez, Almada

This lineup shows Argentina’s balance of experience and young talent. Messi, of course, remains the key player in attack and will be central to Argentina’s strategy.

Venezuela

Venezuela will aim to challenge Argentina with the following possible lineup:

• Goalkeeper: Romo

• Defenders: Aramburu, Ferraresi, Ángel, Navarro

• Midfielders: Martinez, Cásseres

• Attacking Midfielders: Martinez, Herrera, Cádiz

• Forward: Rondon

Venezuela’s players will need to be strong defensively and quick in attack to have a chance against the reigning world champions.

Schedule and Broadcast

The match will take place at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. The kickoff time is 7:30 PM ET (8:30 PM local time in Argentina).

Fans can catch live updates on Universo and stream the match online via platforms such as SonyLiv, JioHotstar, FanCode, and Fubo. This ensures that football lovers around the world can watch Messi’s potentially final home appearance in a World Cup qualifier.

Messi’s Availability for Future Matches

After the match against Venezuela, Argentina will next face Ecuador on September 9. Messi is expected to return to South Florida to continue playing with Inter Miami for the remaining matches of the 2025 MLS season. While he may play in the next Argentina match, fans will cherish the Buenos Aires game as a memorable moment in his national career.

The Significance of the Match

This match is not just another qualifier; it carries emotional and historical importance. For Messi, it could be the final time he plays in front of his home fans for the national team. His journey in Argentine football has been long and filled with achievements, from winning multiple Ballon d’Or awards to lifting the 2022 FIFA World Cup trophy.

Playing at home, with his family in attendance and fans cheering, adds a special dimension to this game. For the younger football fans, seeing Messi play in Argentina could be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Venezuela’s Challenge

While Argentina is a dominant force, Venezuela has a chance to make history. Every goal, every defensive move, and every counterattack will be crucial. If Venezuela performs well, it could boost their chances for the inter-confederation playoffs and help them make a mark in international football.

Fans’ Excitement

The news of Messi possibly playing his last home match has created a buzz among fans. People are excited to see him in action in Argentina once more. Stadium tickets are highly sought after, and millions around the world will tune in online to watch.

This match is a celebration of football, Messi’s career, and the spirit of competition. It is not just about winning or losing but cherishing the moment.

In summary, the Argentina vs Venezuela match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers is highly anticipated. Lionel Messi, the star of the match, may be playing his final home game for Argentina, making it emotionally significant for fans and players alike. Argentina, already qualified, will showcase their strength, while Venezuela will fight hard for their playoff hopes.

With a rich history between the two teams, a strong lineup for both sides, and the attention of global fans, the game promises to be a memorable footballing event. Fans can follow the action live and enjoy the skill, passion, and sportsmanship that Messi and his team bring to the field.

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