An emotional Lionel Messi scored twice for Argentina in what is expected to be his final competitive match on home soil, saying the moment was something he had “dreamed of”.
Lautaro Martinez also scored as the hosts beat Venezuela three goals to nil in a World Cup qualifier in Buenos Aires.
Messi was joined by his three sons and received a standing ovation from a crowd of 80,000 in moving scenes before the match.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner captained Argentina to their third World Cup triumph in 2022 and has scored a record 114 goals in 194 games for his country.
Lionel Messi broke the deadlock at Estadio Monumental when he latched on to a pass from Julian Alvarez before firing into the top corner.
Argentina, who top the South American qualifying group and have qualified for the 2026 World Cup, doubled their lead through Martinez’s diving header before Messi scored again shortly after.
Messi, Argentina’s most-capped player, said he has not decided if he will play at the World Cup.
