New Delhi: Lionel Messi has indicated he may not be a part of Argentina’s title defence campaign in the FIFA 2026 World Cup. After playing what is believed to be his last match on home soil, he said the final decision on whether he represents his country in next year’s event will be decided by his fitness.
“As I’ve said before, I don’t think I’ll play another World Cup. At my age, it’s only logical to think I might not,” the 38-year-old said in a post-game interview Thursday. Messi was seen getting teary-eyed during the warm-up.
“I don’t want it to end ever, but I’m aware that the moment is approaching. It will happen when it has to happen, meanwhile I’m going step by step, living day by day,” the Argentine No.10 said after the game.
It was Messi’s 193rd game in Argentine colours. Scoring two goals against Venezuela, he took his tally of goals in World Cup qualifiers to 36 and tied the record held by Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo. The Inter Miami star has overall scored 114 goals for his nation and sits in the second position on the list of most international goals.
Argentina defeated Venezuela by 3-0 and has already secured the top position in CONMEBOL Qualifier standings. The first goal came at the 39th minute when Julian Alvarez, who paired with Messi in the forward line, passed the ball to Argentine No.10. Messi then, after taking a couple of touches, chipped the ball over the opponent’s goalkeeper.
Messi’s second goal came late in the second half when 24-year-old midfielder Thiago Almada assisted, and the Argentine forward placed the ball perfectly away from the goalkeeper at the bottom right corner of the net.
Another goal for Argentina was scored by Lautaro Martinez, who had come as a substitute for Alvarez in the 74th minute. He scored the goal just a couple of minutes after entering the field.
Messi coming to India?
Argentina still has one final qualifier game left to be played next week against Ecuador.
However, for Indian football enthusiasts, the interest also lies in Argentina’s trip to India, which is planned in November. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) had confirmed late in August that the team would be playing one of its friendly games in India between 10th and 18th November this year.
However, Argentina’s opponent and dates are still not confirmed. Another important aspect is Messi’s participation in the game. The ongoing MLS season will be concluded by the third week of October, and Messi will be free from his club duties. However, Messi’s fitness—he suffered a mild hamstring injury last month—will be a key factor in deciding his presence and participation during the national team’s visit.
Earlier, there were doubts about his availability for the final double round of the World Cup qualifiers.
(Edited by Ajeet Tiwari)
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