Messi’s ‘Farewell’ Match in September – Family to Attend in Full

Argentina have already secured their spot in the 2026 World Cup finals. Still, there is no shortage of excitement surrounding their two remaining qualifiers. The reason is Lionel Messi. These matches will mark the final World Cup qualifiers of the Argentine magician’s career.

Messi himself has admitted the moment feels emotional. In a recent interview with journalist Antonella González, he confirmed that these will indeed be his last qualifying games. His words carried a touch of sentiment.

Now 38 years old, it remains uncertain whether Messi will play in the next World Cup. Fans fear his time with the national team could end at any moment. Against this backdrop, Messi is preparing for what could be his last appearance in World Cup qualifiers. He admitted that the match against Venezuela in Buenos Aires will be especially emotional for him.

Messi said:
“Yes, it will be a special match. Very special. Because it will be my last qualifier. I don’t know if there will be a friendly or anything else afterward, but this will definitely be a special match for me.”

The occasion is so important to Messi that he is making extra arrangements.
“My family will be there — my wife, children, parents, siblings, and even my wife’s family, as many as possible. We’ll enjoy it together. I don’t know what will happen after, but I’ll step on the pitch with that thought in mind. Thank you,” Messi said.

Under his leadership, Argentina will play their last two qualifiers: against Venezuela in Buenos Aires on September 4, and away against Ecuador on September 9. The reigning world champions have already secured the top spot in the group.

Messi, the most-capped Argentine player, has 193 international appearances, including 26 at the World Cup. Despite missing five matches in this qualifying campaign, he has scored five goals and provided three assists. With a total of 31 goals in World Cup qualifiers, he has surpassed Luis Suárez to become the all-time top scorer.

These last two matches give him the chance to extend that record further. But after that, Messi is expected to close the book — bringing to an end one of football’s most glorious chapters.