Speculation is mounting that the upcoming match could be Lionel Messi‘s last on Argentine soil, coinciding with Venezuela’s steadfast quest for a coveted World Cup qualification spot.

Messi’s Last Dance in Argentina?

“Yes, it will be special, it will be a very special match for me as it is indeed the last one of qualifiers.I don’t know if there will be friendly or more games later, but it is a very special party where my family will accompany me: My wife, my children, my parents, my brothers and all those who can by my wife, the whole family. We are going to live it that way.Then I don’t know what will happen, but let’s go with that intention,” said Lionel Messi recently, fueling rumors of a potential farewell.

It is widely believed that Messi will conclude his international career with the Argentine National Team after the 2026 World cup. His journey has been filled with highs and lows, but recent years have brought notable success.

“Yes, it will be special, it will be a very special match for me as it is indeed the last one of qualifiers.”

Venezuela Aims for Repechage

While Venezuela still has a mathematical chance of direct qualification, their primary focus is securing the seventh-place position with their current 18 points to reach the repechage. Their main competitor is Bolivia, with 17 points. The Venezuelan team is the only CONMEBOL nation never to have participated in a World Cup.

Venezuela’s remaining schedule includes a match against Argentina,followed by a home game against Colombia on Tuesday the 9th at 20:30 in the maturín monumental. Simultaneously occurring, Bolivia will face Colombia in barranquilla and conclude their qualifiers at home against brazil in El Alto.