Messi Shines in Farewell Qualifier as Argentina Defeats Venezuela 3–0
Buenos Aires, September 4, 2025 — In what may be his final World Cup qualifier on home soil, Lionel Messi delivered a performance for the ages, scoring twice as Argentina cruised to a 3–0 victory over Venezuela at a packed Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.
The match was more than just a formality, despite Argentina already having secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. For fans, players, and football romantics worldwide, it was a chance to witness Messi's magic in front of his home crowd—possibly for the last time in a competitive setting.
First Half: Messi Opens the Show
The Albiceleste began confidently, dominating possession and pressing high up the pitch. Their patience paid off in the 39th minute, when Julián Álvarez picked out Messi with a precise through ball. The Argentine captain calmly slotted it past the Venezuelan goalkeeper to open the scoring and ignite the crowd.
It was Messi's 107th international goal, further extending his record as Argentina’s all-time top scorer.
Second Half: Lautaro and Messi Seal the Win
Venezuela struggled to generate clear chances, and Argentina maintained their grip on the game well into the second half.
In the 76th minute, substitute Nicolás González sent in a pinpoint cross that found Lautaro Martínez, who made no mistake with a diving header to double the lead.
Just four minutes later, Thiago Almada assisted Messi’s second goal of the night. The 80th-minute strike, a low finish from the edge of the box, brought the Monumental to its feet once more—capping off a memorable evening.
A New Era Begins: Mastantuono Impresses
One of the key storylines beyond Messi’s brilliance was the full senior debut of Franco Mastantuono, the 17-year-old Real Madrid prospect. Starting in midfield, Mastantuono showed poise beyond his years—completing 86% of his passes and playing 69 confident minutes before being subbed off to applause.
Coach Lionel Scaloni praised Mastantuono’s maturity post-match, saying, “He played like someone who’s been here for years. The future is bright.”
Argentina Top the Table
With the win, Argentina sits atop the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying standings with 38 points, maintaining a commanding lead over their rivals. Venezuela, still in contention for qualification, was left to regroup ahead of their next fixture.
Messi’s Potential Farewell
While Messi has not officially confirmed that this was his last World Cup qualifier at home, he acknowledged the emotional weight of the evening.
“I don’t know if I’ll be back here for another qualifier,” Messi said post-match. “But I felt the love tonight, and I’ll carry that forever.”
Final Score: Argentina 3 – 0 Venezuela
Goals:
39' – Lionel Messi (Argentina)
76' – Lautaro Martínez (Argentina)
80' – Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Looking Ahead
Argentina will travel to face Paraguay next, while Venezuela must bounce back quickly to keep their qualification hopes alive.
As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup continues, Argentina fans will relish this victory—a blend of farewell and future, of legends performing and new stars rising.
Comments
Post a Comment