Lionel Messi's last match before the World Cup steals the attention of sports fans everywhere
Argentina Set to Play Final World Cup Qualifier with Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi, the eight-times Ballon d'Or winner, is set to play his final World Cup qualifier for Argentina on Thursday at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires against Venezuela. This match holds a special significance for Messi, as his family, including his wife, children, parents, and siblings, will be in attendance.
The match between Argentina and Venezuela is one of several fixtures taking place on Thursday, as the final stretch of the South American World Cup qualifiers unfolds. Brazil, who have been through coaching upheaval with Dorival Junior replaced and Carlo Ancelotti making his debut, will face Chile. Colombia, who achieved a memorable moment by securing their first-ever World Cup qualifying win over Brazil in November 2023, will play Bolivia. Uruguay, who bid an emotional farewell to their captain, Luis Suarez, during the 0-0 draw with Paraguay in September 2024, will face Peru. Paraguay will take on Ecuador, who overcame a three-point penalty for a player eligibility issue to secure their qualification.
Argentina, who have already secured their berth in the 2026 World Cup by topping the table in South America's qualifying competition with 35 points, are expected to field a strong team. Besides Messi, players such as Julián Álvarez, Thiago Almada, Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, possibly Nico Paz, defenders Otamendi, Romero, Nahuel Molina, Acuña, and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez are expected to take the field.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has described the match as emotional, special, and beautiful, and they should enjoy it if it is indeed Messi's last qualifying match. Messi himself has expressed uncertainty about his future, stating last week that this might be his last qualifying match, as he is unsure if there will be friendlies or more matches after that.
Three automatic qualification spots are still to be determined ahead of Thursday's fixtures and the final matchday on Sept. 9. Colombia, with 22 points, and Venezuela, with 18 points, remain in contention for a first World Cup appearance. Ecuador, Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay, who have secured 25, 25, 24, and 24 points respectively in the World Cup qualifiers, are also in the running.
The 2026 World Cup will be hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the US, making it the first World Cup to be held across three countries. The final matchday for determining the last automatic qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup is on Sept. 9. Fans around the world will be eagerly awaiting these final matches to see which teams will join Argentina in the global football spectacle.
