Argentina will face Venezuela on Thursday, August 4, at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires during the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. Even though Lionel Scaloni‘s team has already qualified for the tournament, this match is significant as it marks Lionel Messi’s last home qualifier in Argentina.
At a press conference on Wednesday, Scaloni confirmed that Messi will play. “How could he not play?” the coach responded when asked about Messi’s participation.
“It’s a special match because of what Leo already said. Emotional, beautiful, because if it’s true that it will be his last in the Qualifiers, we have to enjoy it, and I’ll be the first one to do so. It’s a pleasure to have him, and I hope the fans at the stadium, and Leo himself, can enjoy it because they deserve it,” Scaloni added, confirming Messi’s start on Thursday.
Despite the physical strain from Inter Miami’s recent 3-0 loss to the Seattle Sounders in the 2025 Leagues Cup final, Messi will be in the starting lineup, recognizing the match’s importance.
Leandro Paredes, Rodrigo De Paul and Lionel Messi during a training session. (Rodrigo Valle/Getty Images)
In addition to Messi, Scaloni mentioned that young players like Nico Paz and Franco Mastantuono might get a chance, as Argentina has already secured their World Cup spot.
Will Messi travel to Ecuador?
Scaloni also confirmed that, barring any changes, Messi will travel to Ecuador for the final match of the South American qualifiers. “He will start and he will also travel to Ecuador for the second game, like everyone else unless something happens,” Scaloni said.
Initial reports suggested Messi might skip the trip to stay fresh for Inter Miami’s demanding schedule of nine matches in 35 days. However, Scaloni ruled out those rumors, assuring that Messi will join the team in Ecuador unless unexpected issues arise.