Lionel Messi delivered a memorable performance in his final home World Cup qualifier with Argentina, scoring twice in a 3-0 victory over Venezuela at the packed estadio Monumental on Thursday. The win helped Argentina maintain their position at the top of South American qualifying standings with 38 points.Messi found the net in the 39th and 80th minutes, while Lautaro Martinez scored in the 76th minute. The victory was particularly significant as it marked Messi’s last home qualifier match with the national team.“Being able to finish this way here is what I’ve always dreamed of. I’ve experienced a lot of things on this pitch, both good and not so good, but it’s always a joy to play in Argentina, in front of our fans,” Messi said.The Argentine captain’s two goals extended his record as the all-time leading scorer in South American World Cup qualifiers with 36 goals. His Inter Miami teammate Luis Suarez follows with 29 goals, while Bolivia’s Marcelo Moreno Martins stands third with 22.Regarding his future participation in next year’s World Cup, Messi expressed uncertainty about his physical readiness.
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“I’m excited, eager. It’s day by day, feeling the sensations. If I feel good, I enjoy it; if not, I’d rather not be there,” he said, noting that the nine months until the tournament is “a long time.”While Messi hasn’t disclosed his retirement plans, the next World Cup qualifiers won’t begin until 2027, when he’ll be 40 years old.The World Cup champions Argentina have already secured their qualification for the upcoming tournament. They will maintain their top position in the South American qualifying standings regardless of the results in the final round next Tuesday.Venezuela, despite their loss, remains in contention for a World Cup spot through an intercontinental playoff. Currently in seventh place with 18 points, they continue their quest to qualify for their first-ever World Cup.
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