Argentina Prepares for Lionel Messi's Final Home World Cup Qualifier

Argentina's national team is preparing for what is expected to be Lionel Messi's final competitive home game in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela, a match filled with emotion and significance for both the fans and players. Although Argentina has already secured top spot in the qualifiers, the game represents a farewell for Messi on Argentine soil before the World Cup, with coach Lionel Scaloni expressing deep admiration for Messi and the hope that the star will have another chance to bid farewell to fans if he chooses. Scaloni and others have been visibly emotional about the occasion, highlighting Messi's legendary status and contributions, including their 2022 World Cup victory together. Messi, 38, has not officially retired but hinted this match might be his last home qualifier, with expectations that the 2026 World Cup will be his final tournament. The match will be held in a packed stadium and will be exclusively streamed on VIX, requiring a subscription, which limits access for some fans. Scaloni also provided updates on other team members and expressed readiness to give opportunities to younger players during the remaining qualifiers.