Messi shines at Monumental, Argentina helps 3 South American teams qualify for World Cup

(NLDO) – Playing for the last time with the Argentina team at home, Lionel Messi turned the match against Venezuela into a complete football feast for fans.

In an emotional atmosphere at the Monumental Stadium, Argentina had a convincing 3-0 victory over Venezuela in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in South America on the morning of September 5. This could be the last time Lionel Messi plays in a World Cup qualifier at home as the 37-year-old captain has repeatedly mentioned retiring from the national team after the 2026 World Cup.

Messi and the author of the opening goal assist Julian Alvarez

Right from the start of the match, Argentina completely controlled the game with smooth and fast play. The duo Messi - Álvarez continuously stirred up the opponent's defense with support from the four-man midfield including Mastantuono, De Paul, Almada and Paredes. However, it was not until the 39th minute that the balance was broken. From a central combination with Julian Álvarez, Messi broke through and launched a delicate lob, opening the score in the excitement of more than 80,000 spectators.

Messi's opening goal for Argentina - Clip: X

After the break, Argentina continued to press their opponents. Although Venezuela defended steadfastly, they had almost no chance to counterattack due to the terrible pressure from the home team. In the 76th minute, substitute Lautaro Martínez doubled the lead with a close-range header after a precise cross from Nicolás González.

Messi scored twice in Argentina's big party

Just a few minutes later, Monumental exploded again. In the 80th minute, Thiago Almada crossed the ball just in time for Messi to gently tap the ball into the empty net, completing his own double. 3-0 for Argentina, the result reflected the overwhelming situation with 76% ball possession and 17 shots, while Venezuela did not have a single shot on target.

The final whistle blew, tens of thousands of fans sang a song of gratitude to Messi. The Rosario superstar shed tears in a special moment. With 2 goals, Messi continued to affirm his irreplaceable role, at the same time bringing Argentina firmly to the top of the table with 38 points after 17 matches. The team has officially won an early ticket to the 2026 World Cup from round 13.

Paraguay qualified for the World Cup after 16 years

Meanwhile, Venezuela is still stuck in 7th place with 18 points, facing many difficulties in the race for a playoff spot. Argentina put an end to Venezuela's hopes of officially qualifying for the World Cup, at the same time helping 3 other teams, including Uruguay, Paraguay and Colombia, to qualify.

Uruguay struggled but still managed to get a ticket to the World Cup

A festive atmosphere filled Paraguay as the national team secured their first World Cup berth in 16 years. Colombia also celebrated with Paraguay. Los Cafeteros also returned to the World Cup after the disappointment of failing to qualify for 2022.

With impressive performances recently, James Rodriguez is expected to lead his home team to go deep in next year's World Cup.

James Rodriguez remains Colombia's spiritual leader

Meanwhile, Uruguay is in the World Cup for the fourth consecutive time. Under the guidance of coach Marcelo Bielsa, "La Celeste" is considered one of the most interesting teams to watch.

In addition to the six teams that have qualified directly for the World Cup finals – Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Uruguay, Paraguay, Colombia – South America also has one place in the intercontinental play-off. This is a competition between Venezuela and Bolivia. In the final match, Venezuela will face Colombia, while Bolivia will face Brazil. Peru and Chile did not qualify and will watch the World Cup on TV.

Results of the morning matches of September 5:

Argentina 3-0 Venezuela

Uruguay 3-0 Peru

Colombia 3-0 Bolivia

Brazil 3-0 Chile

Paraguay 0-0 Ecuador

Source: https://nld.com.vn/messi-ruc-sang-tai-monumental-argentina-giup-3-doi-bong-nam-my-du-world-cup-196250905105629328.htm