FIFA WCQ: Lionel Messi brings tears and cheers to light up Argentina one last time in heartbreaking final game

Barcelona legend Lionel Messi delivered a stunning and emotional performance in his final home game for Argentina against Venezuela, stealing the spotlight in a farewell that left fans both in tears and celebration.

As the South American FIFA World Cup qualifiers near their conclusion, Messi’s display in what is believed to be his last match on home soil was nothing short of magical.

Argentina extended their lead at the top of the standings to 10 points with a commanding 3-0 victory over Venezuela, largely thanks to Messi’s inspiring double-goal effort.

The game began with a touching moment between Messi rated best dribbler by Eden Hazard and his children, as passionate supporters in the stadium showed their love for the iconic player.

The emotional start set the tone for a memorable night, which ended with Messi wiping tears after scoring twice to seal a resounding win for La Albiceleste.

With only the final away qualifier against Ecuador remaining, this match appears to be Messi's last home appearance ahead of his expected retirement following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

After the game, an emotional Messi reflected on the experience and his achievements with Argentina.

“Being able to end this way here is what I always dreamed of, being able to end it with my people. For many years I felt the love in Barcelona, and my dream was to have that here as well in my country,” he said, according to All about Argentina.

Messi continued, “For many years a lot of things were said, but I choose to hold on to all the good things we did with the group that tried but couldn’t manage to win it all, and later it happened for me and a few others from the previous generation, and everything we lived was beautiful.”

While Argentina prepares for the final qualifier, if this was a farewell, then, Messi has given fans something to cherish for a long time to come.