After farewell in Argentina, Messi on the Copa: “I’ll take it day by day” | OneFootball

Lionel Messi experienced a historic moment this Thursday at the Más Monumental, playing his last official match on Argentine soil for the South American Qualifiers. The Inter Miami star shone in the 3-0 victory over Venezuela, scoring two goals and bidding farewell to the fans in a beautiful celebration.

“Many emotions, knowing it was the last one here in terms of points. I experienced many things on this field. Good ones, not so good ones, but it is always a joy to play in Argentina in front of our fans, especially after a victory. To be able to finish like this is what I always dreamed of, with my people,” Messi declared to TyC Sports of Argentina.

The star also spoke about his presence in the next 2026 World Cup, remaining cautious amid speculations: “I might not play the next World Cup because of my age. But I am excited and living day by day, game by game. The important thing is to be well with myself and enjoy every moment.”

Messi also commented on the intense pace of the season and the importance of taking care of himself: “This year we had many consecutive games. Now I was out for a few days, came back, and it started hurting again. Fortunately, I managed to play three games in a row, living day by day and feeling the atmosphere. When I feel good, I enjoy it; when not, I prefer to hold back.”

The game itself followed the expected script. From the first minutes, Argentina imposed an intense rhythm and created the best opportunities, with Messi and Julián Álvarez pressuring the Venezuelan defense. The opening goal came in the first half, in a moment of pure class from the number 10, who received a pass from Álvarez and finished with a subtle chip, scoring his 103rd goal for the national team. In the second half, Lautaro Martínez extended the lead, and Messi scored again, sealing the rout.

With the victory, Argentina reached 38 points and maintained the isolated lead in the Qualifiers. Venezuela, with 18 points, remains in seventh place, still with chances for a playoff. In the last round, scheduled for Tuesday, the Albiceleste visits Ecuador, while Venezuela hosts Colombia, seeking to keep their World Cup dream alive.

Messi revealed that he will be absent in the next match against Ecuador, explaining that he spoke with coach Scaloni and decided to rest after recovering from an injury, avoiding unnecessary strain before the October friendlies.

“These were very intense days, I reunited with many friends and acquaintances, took many photos. I enjoyed the moment, was with all my family: my mother, my siblings, my sisters-in-law, my nephews. These are things that don’t always happen in Buenos Aires. I enjoyed everything, saw Nico (Vázquez, who went to his play), who is a friend. They were very good days,” he concluded.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.