Messi’s Potential Farewell Match in Argentina

While Lionel Messi has not made a formal announcement regarding his retirement, speculation is increasing that the upcoming match against Venezuela may be his last appearance on home soil for Argentina in the World Cup qualifiers.

Argentina has already qualified for the next World Cup. They are scheduled to play Venezuela in the South American qualifiers next Thursday, September 9, at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.

Following Argentina’s World Cup victory in Qatar in 2022, led by Messi, he indicated a possible departure from the national team after the tournament. When the qualifiers for the 2030 World Cup commence in 2027, Messi will be 40 years of age.

Messi described the forthcoming match as “very, very special” after Argentina’s semi-final victory in the Leagues Cup over Orlando City, alluding to it potentially being his final qualifying match.

“It’s going to be a very, very special match for me because it’s the last qualifying match. My family will be there with me—my wife, my children, my parents, my siblings,” Messi stated.

He further commented, “I don’t know if there will be friendlies or more matches after [Venezuela], but we’re going to experience it that way. I don’t know what will happen next.”

In response to Messi’s statements, CONMEBOL, the South American soccer governing body, posted a photo of him in the Argentina jersey with the caption: “The last dance is coming.”

Tickets for the match are in high demand, with prices ranging from $100 to over $500, as the Argentine Football Association (AFA) aims to capitalize on Messi’s possible farewell at home.

Before the World Cup, Messi will also have opportunities to represent Argentina in friendly matches held in the United States.

AFA President Claudio Tapia announced Thursday that the national team is slated to play Puerto Rico in Chicago and Venezuela in Miami during the October FIFA international window.