Lionel Messi hints this match can be his last for Argentina

Argentina and Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has indicated that Argentina’s upcoming World Cup Qualifier match against Venezuela on September 4 at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires could be his last qualifier match on home soil. Speaking after Inter Miami’s 3-1 victory over Orlando City in the Leagues Cup semifinal, where Messi scored twice, the 37-year-old reflected on the significance of the occasion.

What did Messi say?

“Yes, it’s going to be special, a very special match for me because it’s the last one of the Qualifiers. I don’t know if there will be any friendlies or more matches after that,” Messi said. He also confirmed that his entire family, wife, children, parents, and siblings will be present to share the moment with him.

Has Argentina qualified for FIFA World Cup 2026?

Argentina has already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, topping the CONMEBOL standings by a wide margin. This means the final qualifiers against Venezuela and Ecuador hold little sporting pressure but carry strong emotional weight for Messi, who has had an illustrious international career crowned by winning the 2022 World Cup and multiple Copa América titles.

For Messi, the September 4 match promises to be a celebration and a moment of closure, where family, fans, and football history converge at the Monumental.

What’s next for Messi at the club level?

Meanwhile, back at club level, Messi’s Inter Miami advanced to the Leagues Cup final and will face either Seattle Sounders in the title decider scheduled for this Sunday.