Messi’s Brace Seals Argentina’s 3–0 Win Over Venezuela
It may have been Lionel Messi’s final match on home soil, and the legend made sure it was a memorable one. With a brilliant brace, the Argentine captain lit up the Monumental Stadium and guided Argentina to a commanding 3–0 victory over Venezuela in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
On Friday morning Bangladesh time, Messi’s two goals, along with Lautaro Martínez’s strike, ensured Lionel Scaloni’s men ended their home qualifiers on a high note.
From the opening whistle, Argentina created chances. Julián Álvarez forced an early save, and Cristian Romero had the ball in the net from a corner, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside.
The breakthrough finally came before halftime. Leandro Paredes set up Álvarez, who played Messi through. The captain produced a delightful chip over the goalkeeper and defenders to give Argentina a 1–0 lead.
Right after the interval, the hosts intensified their attack. Messi’s clever pass to Nicolás González almost doubled the lead, but the Venezuelan goalkeeper made the stop. Soon after, substitute Lautaro Martínez made an instant impact, heading in from González’s cross after Messi’s free-kick routine (2–0).
Messi wasn’t done yet. Thiago Almada provided a perfect assist, and Messi calmly slotted home his second of the night, sealing a 3–0 advantage for Argentina.
Late in the match, Giuliano Simeone and Nico Paz came on to make appearances, but the scoreline remained unchanged. Argentina walked off with a comfortable 3–0 win, with Messi once again the star of the show.
Up next, Argentina will face Ecuador in their final World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.
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