All eyes are on Lionel Messi as Argentina prepares to face Venezuela in a World Cup 2026 qualifier, potentially his last on home soil. The match, scheduled for Thursday, September 4, at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, is stirring emotions among fans and teammates alike.

At 38, Messi is nearing the twilight of his illustrious career. While he hasn't set a firm retirement date, he has acknowledged that his international career will likely conclude after the 2026 World Cup. This qualifier, therefore, carries extra significance, marking a possible farewell to competitive matches in front of his home crowd.

Argentina, already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, currently leads the South American qualifying campaign with 35 points. With qualification secured, the focus shifts to preparing for the World Cup and giving Messi a fitting send-off. The atmosphere at the Estadio Mas Monumental is expected to be electric, with over 85,000 fans anticipated to attend and pay tribute to the player who ended Argentina's decades-long trophy drought.

Adding to the emotional weight, this match presents Messi with an opportunity to break another record. He is currently one appearance shy of Ecuador's Iván Hurtado's record of 72 South American World Cup qualifying matches. By playing against Venezuela, Messi would equal the record, and if he plays in the subsequent match against Ecuador, he will surpass it to become the all-time appearance leader. He already holds the record for the most goals scored in the competition.

Argentina's coach, Lionel Scaloni, has also expressed his emotions regarding Messi's potential final qualifier at home. Scaloni, who played alongside Messi, spoke of the special experience of coaching him and witnessing him lift the World Cup trophy. He has also hinted at ensuring Messi has another match in Argentina if he desires, acknowledging his deservingness. Scaloni confirmed that Messi will start against Venezuela and is expected to travel to Ecuador for the following game. He also mentioned that younger players might get opportunities in these matches.

However, there are reports that Messi might miss the match against Ecuador to manage his workload. His club, Inter Miami, faces a packed schedule, and prioritizing his fitness is crucial. A decision to skip the Ecuador trip would allow Messi to return to Miami and prepare for the club's upcoming games.

Looking ahead, Argentina might not need to participate in the 2030 World Cup qualifiers as they are expected to be co-hosts of the tournament's opening phase along with Paraguay and Uruguay. This means Messi's next World Cup qualifier in Argentina could be as far away as 2031, when he would be 44 years old.

The match against Venezuela is more than just a World Cup qualifier; it's a celebration of Lionel Messi's extraordinary career and his immense contribution to Argentinian football. It's a chance for fans to express their gratitude and for Messi to bid a potential farewell to his home fans in a competitive setting.