Should Fans Relish Messi's Final Home Qualifier?
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Synopsis
As Lionel Messi prepares for what could be his last home World Cup qualifier, Argentina's coach, Lionel Scaloni, encourages fans to savor the moment. This emotional match against Venezuela at the Monumental Stadium promises to be a memorable one, with both teams facing significant stakes in the qualifying process.
Key Takeaways
- Messi's last home qualifier may impact fans deeply.
- Argentina leads the qualifiers and is World Cup-bound.
- Venezuela seeks historic World Cup qualification.
- Coaching Messi has been a treasured experience for Scaloni.
- Fans are encouraged to cherish this special moment.
Buenos Aires, Sep 4 (NationPress) - Argentina's head coach, Lionel Scaloni, has called on supporters to fully embrace what might be Lionel Messi's final home World Cup qualifier against Venezuela this Thursday.
While Messi has not made any formal announcement regarding retirement, he did indicate last week that the upcoming match at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires would be a “very special match”, as reported by Xinhua.
Scaloni remarked during a press conference on Wednesday, “Indeed, this match is going to be emotional because it is our last (home) qualifying match.”
“We need to enjoy it, just like we have always said. I will cherish it more than anyone else. Coaching him has truly been a pleasure, and I hope the fans attending the stadium will also relish it because he genuinely deserves it.”
“Tomorrow will be thrilling for everyone. I’m confident this won’t be his last game in Argentina. If he chooses this to be his farewell, we will ensure that he has another match because it is appropriate to do so at the right moment, and he rightfully deserves it.”
Argentina currently tops the South American qualifying group with 35 points from 16 matches and has already secured a spot in next year’s World Cup across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
On the other hand, Venezuela is positioned seventh in the 10-team standings as it aims for its first-ever World Cup qualification.
Scaloni acknowledged, “They are a challenging opponent who has produced some commendable results under Bocha (manager Fernando Batista).”
He continued, “They are on the brink of historic World Cup participation, which would be monumental for them. We recognize that a lot is at stake in tomorrow’s match, making it an exciting encounter to witness, and we will aim to secure victory by playing our style.”
The top six South American teams will gain direct access to next year’s tournament, while the seventh-ranked team will face an intercontinental playoff.
Argentina's last qualifier for the 2026 World Cup will take place away against Ecuador on Tuesday, with Venezuela hosting Colombia on the same day.
Point of View
It is our duty to highlight the significance of Lionel Messi's potential farewell at home. This match is more than just a qualifier; it represents the culmination of a legendary career and the ambitions of a nation. We stand with our team and honor the impact Messi has had on Argentine football.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this Lionel Messi's last World Cup qualifier at home?
While it hasn't been officially confirmed, it is likely that this will be Messi's final home World Cup qualifier.
What are the stakes for Venezuela in this match?
Venezuela is striving to qualify for its first ever World Cup, making this match crucial for them.
How is Argentina performing in the qualifiers?
Argentina is currently leading the South American qualifying group with 35 points, having already secured a place in the World Cup.
What does Scaloni say about the match?
Scaloni has urged fans to enjoy this emotional match, emphasizing Messi's impact and the excitement it brings.
When is Argentina's next World Cup qualifier?
Argentina's next qualifier will be an away match against Ecuador on Tuesday.
