Lionel Messi made it a goalscoring farewell as he performed what seems more likely to be his remaining Argentina match in his homeland in a 3-0 win over Venezuela, however once more refused to say whether or not he’ll assist them defend the World Cup on the 2026 finals.
Messi was on the right track twice for Argentina in his 194th cap for his nation, along with his objectives sandwiched by a 76th minute effort from Lautaro Martinez.
The person many contemplate the best of all time is unlikely to play for Argentina past their title defence subsequent yr, and was tearful as he made his dwelling swansong in Buenos Aires.
Talking afterwards he stated: “With the ability to end this manner here’s what I’ve at all times dreamed of.
“I’ve skilled a whole lot of issues on this pitch, each good and never so good, but it surely’s at all times a pleasure to play in Argentina, in entrance of our followers.”
Messi stays uncertain on World Cup
Messi lastly skilled World Cup glory in 2022 as he beat France on penalties in an exciting remaining that ended 3-3 after additional time.
The 38-year-old has previously said he’ll solely characteristic on the 2026 event in the US, Canada and Mexico if he feels bodily match.
And he reiterated that message on Thursday.
“Similar as I stated earlier than in regards to the World Cup that I don’t suppose I’ll play one other,” Messi defined.
“Due to my age, probably the most logical factor is that I gained’t make it. However nicely, we’re nearly there so I’m excited and motivated to play it. Like I at all times say, I’m going day-to-day, match by match. That’s it, taking it day-to-day, going by how I really feel.
“Daily, making an attempt to really feel good and above all, being sincere with myself. After I really feel good, I take pleasure in it, however after I don’t, actually, I don’t have a great time, so I favor to not be there if I don’t really feel good. So we’ll see. I haven’t decided in regards to the World Cup.
“Match by match, I’ll end the season, then I’ll have preseason, and there might be six months left. So we’ll see how I really feel. Hopefully I’ll have a great preseason in 2026 and end this MLS season nicely after which I’ll resolve.”
Uruguay, Colombia and Paraguay guide World Cup spots
The automated qualifiers for the World Cup from CONMEBOL are actually all confirmed after Uruguay, Colombia and Paraguay booked their locations within the finals.
Uruguay and Colombia claimed 3-0 wins over Peru and Bolivia respectively, whereas a goalless draw with Ecuador was sufficient for Paraguay to make sure their first look since 2010.
“It’s a great way to qualify. The group’s offensive play was robust, there have been additionally many highlights in particular person performances,” Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa stated.
The outcomes imply Venezuela and Bolivia go into the ultimate spherical of matches with only one level separating them as they battle for the interconfederation play-off spot.
Seventh-placed Venezuela host Colombia, whereas eighth-placed Bolivia tackle Brazil at dwelling on Tuesday.
