FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: When are Argentina's matches, will Messi play?

Argentina will face Venezuela and Ecuador in the CONMEBOL Qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Though Argentina have already qualified for the World Cup, these matches hold a separate significance.

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Lionel Messi's Argentina is gearing up for its final FIFA World Cup qualifiers matches of 2025, which are expected to be emotionally charged and significant, both for the team and the legendary captain himself. Argentina enters these matches having already secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will defend the title they won in Qatar in 2022.

The upcoming qualifiers see Messi playing what could be his last home World Cup qualifier for Argentina.

Argentina’s schedule in September

Argentina's remaining FIFA World Cup Qualifiers in 2025 are scheduled as follows: The team will host Venezuela on September 5, 2025, at 5 am IST at the famed Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.

This match is highly anticipated as Messi has described it as "a very, very special match" since it could be his final qualifier game played in Argentina.

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Following that, Argentina will travel to Ecuador for their final qualifier on September 10, 2025. The match will be played at Estadio Monumental Banco Pichincha at 4.30 am IST.

Both matches will carry significance despite Argentina having already qualified, as they seek to cement their top position in the CONMEBOL standings

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Will Messi play?

Lionel Messi, who turned 38 in June 2025, has hinted at retiring from international football after the 2026 World Cup. He has expressed uncertainty about whether there will be friendlies or further matches after the qualifier against Venezuela, adding that the match will be special as his family will be present to support him.

This qualifier marks a sentimental moment in Messi's illustrious career, one filled with accolades, records, and a revered place in football history.

The qualifiers for the 2030 World Cup, starting in 2027, will likely proceed without him, as he will be around 40 years old by then.

Preparation for Messi’s probable final qualifier home game

The Argentine Football Association is capitalizing on the significance of Messi’s potential farewell qualifier at home by raising ticket prices, reflecting high demand and fan interest.

The cheapest tickets start at around $100, with premium seating going up to $500, underscoring the match's emotional and historic importance.

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