Lionel Messi’s Emotional Last Home Game for Argentina
Buenos Aires – September 4, 2025 – The Estadio Monumental turned into a sea of blue and white as Lionel Messi played what is likely his final home World Cup qualifier for Argentina. The atmosphere was electric, the crowd emotional, and the football pure magic as Messi delivered a performance that will be remembered for generations.
Reuters – Messi shines in his final home World Cup qualifier
The Build-Up: A Night of Tributes
From the morning of the match, Buenos Aires felt different. Streets were lined with murals of Messi, fans waved giant flags, and chants of “Messi, Messi!” echoed near the stadium hours before kickoff.
The 38-year-old captain walked onto the pitch hand-in-hand with his three sons — Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro. When the national anthem played, Messi fought back tears as 80,000 voices sang in unison.
The Match: Argentina 3–0 Venezuela
Argentina gave their captain a perfect farewell with a convincing 3–0 victory.
- 1st Goal (Messi, 32’): A classic Messi finish from outside the box, bending into the top corner.
- 2nd Goal (Lautaro Martínez, 54’): A powerful header from a corner that doubled the lead.
- 3rd Goal (Messi, 70’): A calmly converted penalty to seal the win — and the celebration.
Messi’s brace brought his tally to 24 goals in World Cup qualifiers played at home, along with 14 assists. His overall Argentina record now stands at 185 caps, 113 goals, and 56 assists — making him not just Argentina’s top scorer, but one of football’s greatest ever.
Post-Match Words from Messi
After the final whistle, Messi took the microphone:
“Being able to finish this way here is what I’ve always dreamed of. I had the love of the fans at Barcelona, but I always wanted to have it here too. Tonight, you gave me one of the most beautiful memories of my life.”
Coach Lionel Scaloni called Messi a “once-in-a-lifetime player” and thanked him for inspiring a generation.
Cadena SER – Messi announces last match in Argentina
Fan Reactions
Fans were quick to share their emotions online.
@JuanMartinez: “I cried tonight. Thank you Messi for everything you gave us. You are Argentina.”
@CelesteLover: “The perfect goodbye on home soil. Two goals, a win, and tears. Football is beautiful.”
@WorldCupDreams: “If this is the last time we see Messi at home, what a way to go out. Legend forever.”
The hashtag #GraciasMessi trended worldwide within minutes of the final whistle.
Why This Match Matters
Messi didn’t officially retire but hinted this could be his final competitive game in Argentina. With qualification for the 2026 World Cup already secured, this night symbolized the closing of a chapter.
| Stat | Messi’s Record in WC Qualifiers (Home) |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 45 |
| Wins | 39 |
| Draws | 10 |
| Losses | 2 |
| Goals | 24 |
| Assists | 14 |
His consistency and brilliance at home played a crucial role in Argentina’s success over nearly two decades.
AS – Messi’s full record in home qualifiers
Looking Ahead
Messi has not confirmed if he will play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, leaving fans hopeful for one last dance on the global stage.
For now, this night will be remembered as a perfect goodbye on Argentine soil — a celebration of a career that has inspired millions.
Interesting Articles for Further Reading
Final Thoughts
Messi’s last home game was more than football — it was a love letter between a nation and its greatest sporting hero. Whether or not he steps onto the pitch at the 2026 World Cup, Lionel Messi’s legacy is secure.
Join the conversation: What’s your favorite Messi moment with Argentina? Share your thoughts below and keep celebrating this historic farewell.
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