[World-World qualifier] The farewell time is approaching! Messi scored twice and burst into tears at home.

On September 5, the penultimate round of the 2026 World Cup South American Qualifiers ushered in a milestone, which is likely to be the last official game of Argentine superstar Messi at home. Messi scored two goals, leading Argentina to a 3-0 victory over Venezuela.

For the 38-year-old Messi, he once didn't want to participate in the 2026 World Cup, let alone the qualifiers and main matches of the next World Cup. This game is Argentina's last home game in this World Cup qualifier, and captain Messi's eyes were filled with tears when he warmed up before the game. Home fans sang songs to pay tribute to Messi, and the giant slogan was displayed in the stands: "Thank you for everything you did, my captain, MESSI10!"

For Argentina, which has already qualified, this World Cup qualifier is an exhibition match. Some fans joked about Messi: "I have been a chef who has been making cakes for my teammates for most of my life, and finally I feel the joy of eating cakes." In the 39th minute, Alvarez broke into the penalty area and waved past the opponent's goalkeeper Romo and passed by selflessly. Messi shot and broke the deadlock on the court. In the 80th minute, Almada broke into the penalty area at high speed on the right and made a cross, and Messi pushed the ball into the empty goal to lock in the victory.

Although Messi did not have direct assists in this game, he was still used to making cakes for his teammates. In the 76th minute, Messi saw the opportunity and quickly sent a free kick. Gonzalez inserted into the left cross at high speed, and Lautaro headed the ball to 2-0. Although Lautaro scored the goal and Gonzalez assisted, the creative source of this goal came from Messi.

Text丨Reporter Liu Yi

Picture丨Visual China