Although Argentina have already secured their spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, today’s match against Venezuela holds significant importance. This marks Lionel Messi’s final World Cup Qualifiers game on Argentine soil. Acknowledging this momentous occasion, fans at Mas Monumental stadium gave the Argentine star a hero’s welcome. Overwhelmed by the heartfelt reception, Messi couldn’t hold back his tears during the pre-game warm-up.
With Argentina having already secured a spot in the 2026 World Cup, the upcoming match against Venezuela adopts a deeply emotional tone. This game marks Lionel Messi’s final appearance in official competitions with the national team in Argentine soil. In response, the stadium erupted in a heartfelt tribute to the man they’ve dubbed their eternal captain—a player who has transformed from a polarizing figure into a true legend.
Since his debut with the national team in 2005, Lionel Messi has consistently drawn comparisons to Diego Armando Maradona. Both share exceptional talent and the same position on the field, but their personalities differ. Diego was an extroverted, vocal leader, while Messi lets his performance speak volumes. For years, critics targeted the Inter Miami star for not securing titles with Argentina. That narrative shifted in 2021 when he led Argentina to a Copa America victory.
This triumph marked the start of Messi’s and Argentina’s global dominance. Following the Copa America success, Messi guided Argentina to the 2022 Finalissima, showcasing his leadership. The pinnacle of his international career came later that year when Argentina won the 2022 World Cup, solidifying his legendary status. His legacy grew further when he led Argentina to another Copa America triumph in 2024.
Lionel Messi sets new standard in Argentine national team history
Despite early criticism, Lionel Messi has emerged as a transformative force in Argentine soccer, playing 194 matches for the national team. In this period, he has become an unmatched figure, surpassing Gabriel Batistuta to become Argentina’s all-time leading scorer with an extraordinary tally of 112 goals, surpassing Batistuta by 57 goals.
see also
Argentina vs Venezuela LIVE: Game on at the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers! (0-0)
Messi’s legacy extends beyond scoring. He has also set the record for the most assists in Argentina’s history, with 58, eclipsing legends like Diego Maradona and Angel Di Maria. These achievements underscore a legendary legacy, placing him alongside—and statistically above—Maradona as Argentina’s most impressive soccer icon.
Which titles has Lionel Messi won with Argentina so far?
Lionel Messi’s journey with Argentina’s National Team started with some frustrating early setbacks, including losses in several finals. However, he has since built a legendary career. Here is a chronological list of the titles he has won with the national team:
- Olympic gold medal in Beijing 2008
- 2021 Copa America in Brazil
- CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Champions (Finalissima) in 2022 vs. Italy
- 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar
- 2024 Copa America in the United States
