Argentina is set for their last two matches in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, having already secured their spot. This will mark the final time Lionel Messi plays in World Cup Qualifiers, as his illustrious career with La Albiceleste is nearing its end.
At 38, Messi’s future in the next World Cup is uncertain, and his time with the national team is clearly coming to a close. He confirmed that the match against Venezuela in Buenos Aires, which may be his last qualifier at home, will be an emotional moment.
“Yes, it’s going to be special, a very special match for me because it’s the last qualifier game,” he stated to journalist Antonella Gonzalez after Inter Miami’s victory over Orlando City in the Leagues Cup semifinals.
“I don’t know if there will be a friendly or more games afterward, but yes, it’s a very special match, and that’s why my family will be with me—my wife, my kids, my parents, my siblings, and as many relatives as possible from my wife’s side. We’ll experience it together. After that, like I said, I don’t know what will happen, but we’re going in with that mindset. Thank you.
Lionel Messi of Argentina (Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
Messi will guide Argentina in these final qualifying fixtures. They will first face Venezuela on Thursday, September 4, in Buenos Aires, followed by a match against Ecuador on September 9 to end the campaign, where Argentina has already claimed the top position in the standings.
Argentina and Messi’s Qualifiers Journey
Messi holds the record for the most appearances in Argentina’s history, with 193 caps, including 26 at World Cups. During this qualifying cycle, he missed five matches but still left a significant mark, scoring five goals and providing three assists across 11 games.
With 31 goals in 65 appearances, Messi is the all-time top scorer in World Cup Qualifiers, outdoing legends like Luis Suarez. With only two matches left, he will be keen to enhance his legacy before concluding this chapter with La Albiceleste.