If this indeed was Lionel Messi’s final competitive home match for Argentina, he certainly left a lasting impression. Messi netted two goals on Thursday during Argentina’s 3-0 triumph over Venezuela amidst a lively, sold-out crowd in Buenos Aires at the Estadio Más Monumental, which gathered to send him off.

“Ending things this way here is what I’ve always envisioned,” Messi remarked. “I’ve had a multitude of experiences on this field, both positive and negative, yet it brings me immense joy to compete in Argentina, before our supporters.”

Messi has not indicated when he plans to retire from professional soccer. Nonetheless, the qualifiers for the 2030 World Cup will start in 2027, when he will be 40 years old.

He scored in the 39th and 80th minutes, while Lautaro Martinez contributed a goal in the 76th minute. Messi has reached 36 goals in South American World Cup qualifiers, retaining his status as the all-time top scorer. His Inter Miami colleague, Luis Suarez, has recorded 29 goals in continental qualifying but has since retired from Uruguay’s national team. Bolivia’s Marcelo Moreno Martins follows with 22 goals.

Looking forward, Messi clarified that he will only participate in next year’s World Cup if he feels physically prepared.

“I’m enthusiastic and eager. It’s a day-by-day assessment, based on how I feel. If I’m in good condition, it’s enjoyable; if not, I’d rather not be included,” Messi noted, adding that the nine months leading up to the tournament’s start will be lengthy.

The World Cup champions, already qualified, improved their points tally to 38 and will maintain their lead in the South American qualifying ranks, regardless of the outcomes in the forthcoming round next Tuesday.

Venezuela, chasing qualification for its maiden World Cup, remains at 18 points, holding the seventh slot, yet still vies for a chance to advance to an intercontinental playoff.