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Messi scored twice in his emotional final match on Argentine soil, hinting the 2026 FIFA World Cup may be beyond reach as he celebrates a legendary career with Argentina.
Lionel Messi with his sons at what could be his final home game for Argentina (X)
Lionel Messi delivered a brace in what he described as his final competitive match on Argentine soil.
The night was filled with emotion as the 38-year-old captain hinted strongly that the 2026 FIFA World Cup may come too late in his glittering career.
A Dream Farewell in Buenos Aires
Messi struck in the 39th and 80th minutes, treating the sold-out crowd to one last glimpse of his brilliance in a qualifier at home.
Reflecting afterward, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner admitted the occasion was one he had long envisioned.
“We’ll see. There are so many emotions, and I’ve experienced so many things in this field. It’s always a joy to play in Argentina with our people,” Messi said.
“We’ve been enjoying match after match for many years. I’m very happy to be able to finish in this way; here is what I always dreamed of.”
Messi’s Legacy with Argentina
The Inter Miami forward has amassed 193 caps and scored 112 goals for Argentina, making him both the nation’s most-capped player and all-time leading scorer.
As captain, Messi guided the Albiceleste to their long-awaited 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph in Qatar, cementing his status as one of football’s immortals.
He also lifted the Copa América in 2021 and the Finalissima in 2022, silencing critics who once doubted whether he could replicate his club success at international level.
2026 World Cup: A Step Too Far?
While Argentina have already secured qualification for the expanded 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Messi — who will be 39 by next year’s World Cup — admitted that competing in the tournament would be unlikely given his age.
“Same as I said before about the World Cup, that I don’t think I’ll play another. Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it,” Messi said.
“But well, we’re almost there, so I’m excited and motivated to play it. Like I always say, I go day by day, going by how I feel. I’m trying to feel good and, above all, be honest with myself… I haven’t made a decision about the World Cup.”
He added that he intends to reassess his situation closer to the tournament: “I’ll finish the season, then I’ll have preseason, and there will be six months left. So, we’ll see how I feel.”
(with agency inputs)
After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term…Read More
After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term… Read More
September 05, 2025, 15:48 IST
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