Messi Gears Up for Emotional Final Home World Cup Qualifier

Lionel Messi is preparing for what could be a poignant moment in his illustrious career as he gets set to play his final home match in a World Cup qualifier for the Argentina national team. The game against Venezuela will take place on August 31, 2023, at the historic Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. Following Argentina’s qualification for the upcoming World Cup, Messi’s emotions are running high as he acknowledges the significance of this match.

Reflecting on the upcoming game, the 38-year-old forward stated, “It’s going to be a very, very special match for me because it’s the last qualifying match.” Messi’s remarks came shortly after he led Inter Miami to the Leagues Cup final, scoring twice against Orlando City. As Argentina prepares for the World Cup next year, Messi has indicated that this match may mark the end of his international career, particularly as he considers retirement after the tournament.

Argentina is already set for the World Cup, defending the title they secured in 2022. The final qualifying match will occur on September 9, 2024, against an as-yet-undetermined opponent. Notably, the qualifiers for the 2030 World Cup are scheduled to commence in 2027, when Messi will be 40 years old.

“My family will be there with me: my wife, my children, my parents, my siblings,” Messi shared about the personal significance of the match. “We’re going to live it like that. I don’t know what will happen next.” His sentiments were echoed by CONMEBOL, South America’s governing soccer body, which posted a message on social media stating, “the last dance is coming,” accompanied by a striking image of Messi in his Argentina kit.

In anticipation of this unique event, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) is taking steps to maximize attendance and revenue. Ticket prices for the match reflect this strategy, with costs ranging from $100 to approximately $500. This move underscores the immense popularity of Messi, who remains a central figure in Argentine football.

Messi’s recent performances have been impressive, especially after returning from a muscular injury that sidelined him for part of August. He expressed initial concerns about his fitness but was eager to contribute to his team’s success. “I wanted to be here,” he said after the match against Orlando City. “When I came back against [LA] Galaxy on August 17, I felt some discomfort, but I wanted to play the game.”

He acknowledged the challenge posed by his opponents, noting that they had defeated Miami in both previous encounters this year. “In the first half, I was playing with a bit of fear, but after that, I felt a bit [more] free,” he explained. As Messi approaches this emotional farewell to international football, the anticipation for the match against Venezuela continues to build among fans and supporters alike.