When Lionel Andrés Messi, captain of Argentina national football team found the net twice on September 4, 2025, the crowd at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires erupted in a blend of joy and nostalgia. The 3‑0 victory over Venezuela national football team wasn’t just three points on the board; it marked what officials described as Messi’s final competitive appearance on home soil.
Match Recap and Key Moments
The game kicked off at 7:30 PM ET under a clear sky, and the Argentine side quickly imposed its rhythm. The first breakthrough came in the 16th minute when Messi slotted a low‑driven shot from the edge of the box, his 113th international goal. Just nine minutes later, a swift counter‑attack saw the Argentine winger poke in a cross that midfielder Enzo Fernández turned home, extending the lead to 2‑0.
After the halftime interval, the tempo stayed high. A corner at the 56th minute was met by veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi, who flicked the ball onto Messi’s head for a clinical finish – his 114th tally. The final goal arrived in the 81st minute when substitute Patricio Julián Luque latched onto a through ball and coolly placed it beyond the Venezuelan keeper.
Referee Fernando Rapallini blew the final whistle at 90'+3', sealing a clean sheet for Argentina and a night that will linger in the memory of anyone who watched the match live on Universo or streamed it online.
Messi's Farewell on Home Soil
The emotional weight of the night was palpable. Cameras caught Messi wiping away a single tear after the second goal, a moment that quickly went viral on YouTube under titles like “Lionel Messi In Tears – 2 Goals vs Venezuela Tonight.” In a brief post‑match interview, Messi said, “Playing here, in front of my family and the fans who have supported me for two decades, is a gift I will cherish forever.” He added that while the match marked his last home appearance, his focus now shifts entirely to the World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Coach Lionel Scaloni praised the captain’s professionalism, noting, “Lionel gave us everything he has – skill, heart, and leadership. Tonight he reminded us why he’s one of the greatest to ever wear the albiceleste shirt.” Scaloni also highlighted the depth of the squad, pointing to the seamless integration of younger talents like Luque, who scored the fourth goal.
Implications for World Cup Qualification
Argentina entered the match already assured of a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, having amassed 35‑38 points depending on the source. The win cemented their position at the top of the CONMEBOL standings, leaving them comfortably ahead of rivals Brazil and Ecuador.
Venezuela, meanwhile, remains stuck in the midfield of the table with 18 points. Their next challenge is a must‑win against Colombia; a victory could keep their slim hopes of landing the coveted seventh‑place playoff spot alive. As NBC Sports noted, “Venezuela still has much at stake as they aim for a position in the inter‑confederation playoffs.”
- Argentina: 35‑38 points, +19‑21 goal difference, already qualified.
- Venezuela: 18 points, -4 to -10 goal difference, fighting for playoff chance.
- Key injuries for Argentina: D. Martínez (knee), Facundo Medina (ankle).
- Venezuelan absentees: David Martínez (shoulder), José Andrés Martínez (hand).
Reactions from Players and Fans
Social media lit up with tributes. One Argentine fan wrote, “Seeing Messi lift the trophy was magical, but watching him score his last home goal? Pure poetry.” Venezuelan midfielder Juan Pablo Añor conceded, “We are disappointed, but you have to respect the quality that Messi brings. It’s an honor to play against him.”
International pundits echoed the sentiment. ESPN analyst Gabriel Hawthorne observed, “Messi’s performance tonight reminds us that even in his twilight years, he can decide games. Argentina’s depth assures them a strong World Cup run regardless.”
Looking Ahead: Argentina and Venezuela’s Paths
Argentina’s next fixture is a home test against Peru, a game likely to be used for squad rotation ahead of the World Cup draw. Scaloni hinted that he will give minutes to emerging talents like Julián Álvarez, ensuring the team stays sharp.
Venezuela must regroup quickly. Their coach, Rafael Dudamel, emphasized the need for a “match‑winning mindset” in the upcoming clash with Colombia. A win would not only revive their playoff hopes but also provide a morale boost after a heavy defeat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What made Messi's performance on September 4 special?
It was his final competitive home match, and he scored two goals – his 113th and 114th for Argentina – while visibly emotional. The combination of personal milestone and the significance of playing at Estadio Monumental for the last time amplified the moment.
How does this win affect Argentina’s World Cup qualification?
The 3‑0 victory solidified Argentina’s top spot in the CONMEBOL table, confirming their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup regardless of remaining matches. It also improves their goal difference, giving them a cushion in case of a rare slip‑up later.
What are Venezuela’s chances of reaching the inter‑confederation playoff?
With 18 points, Venezuela must win their final group match against Colombia and hope that results elsewhere favor them. A victory would lift them to 21 points, still requiring a favorable outcome for the seventh‑place slot, making their path narrow but not impossible.
Who stepped up for Argentina besides Messi?
Enzo Fernández added a goal, Nicolás Otamendi provided the assist for Messi’s second strike, and Patricio Julián Luque, a fresh substitute, sealed the win with the fourth goal. Their contributions underscored the squad’s depth.
When and where will Argentina play their next qualifier?
Argentina’s next CONMEBOL qualifier is scheduled for October 10, 2025 at the Estadio Nacional in Lima, Peru. The match is expected to be used to rotate players ahead of the World Cup.