Lionel Messi experienced an emotional night at the Estadio Monumental on Thursday, in what was his final official home match with the Argentine national team. The forward delivered a brace that led to a commanding 3-0 victory over Venezuela in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.
From the opening whistle, the atmosphere was electric. Speaking to local television after the match, Messi reflected: “Knowing it was the last one, I lived through many emotions in this stadium… it was always a joy to play in front of these fans.” He also recalled his years at Barcelona and expressed his pride at receiving such affection from his home country.
The Monumental erupted in song and devotion when his three children accompanied him during the national anthem. The stadium echoed with the chant “Led by Leo Messi, we will all march to victory” after his goals in the 38th and 79th minutes. Lautaro Martínez, scorer of Argentina’s second goal, paid tribute by saying: “Until the very last day he’s with us, Leo will keep teaching us.”
Messi acknowledged that, at his age, this was likely his last official home match. However, he hinted at the possibility of a farewell friendly before the World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Why was this match so significant?
Because it was more than just a win: it was the closing of an unforgettable chapter for Messi at home, filled with gratitude, passion, and the certainty that his legacy is eternal.
