Sophia
Buenos Aires, Argentina – The air in Estadio Mâs Monumental will be thick with emotion as Argentina hosts Venezuela in their final home match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup CONMEBOL Qualifiers. While La Albiceleste has already secured their spot in the global showpiece to defend their crown, this particular fixture carries immense significance, potentially marking Lionel Messi’s final competitive appearance on Argentinian soil.
The prospect of witnessing the legendary captain’s “last dance” at home has been a talking point ever since Messi hinted at the possibility, turning this qualifier into a must-see event for fans across the nation and indeed, the football world.
Venezuela’s World Cup Dream Collides with Messi’s Milestone
Despite the celebratory atmosphere for Argentina, this match is far from a mere exhibition for their opponents. Venezuela, or La Vinotinto, arrives in Buenos Aires with their own fervent aspirations: to qualify for their first-ever FIFA World Cup. They will be eager to spoil Messi’s potential farewell party and seize crucial points in their bid for qualification.
The stage is set for a captivating clash where national pride, personal milestones, and World Cup dreams intersect. Argentina’s head coach, Lionel Scaloni, is expected to field his strongest available XI, with the notable exception of Enzo Fernández, who is suspended. Here’s a look at how Argentina might line up for this monumental encounter on September 4th.
Argentina’s Predicted Lineup (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper
- Emiliano Martínez: “Dibu” Martínez, fresh from a quiet transfer deadline day that saw no move to Manchester United, will take his familiar spot between the posts before returning to Aston Villa.
Defenders
- Nahuel Molina (RB): A consistent and tireless presence on the right flank, Molina remains a solid fixture in Scaloni’s defensive setup.
- Cristian Romero (CB): Tottenham Hotspur’s new captain is an “untouchable” for Scaloni, often elevating his game when donning the Albiceleste shirt.
- Nicolás Otamendi (CB): The veteran defender faces a compelling personal duel, tasked with containing fellow seasoned striker Salomón Rondón.
- Nicolás Tagliafico (LB): Often underrated, Tagliafico provides dependable defense and a wealth of international experience on the left side.
Midfielders
- Rodrigo De Paul (CM): Making his first appearance for Argentina since joining Inter Miami, De Paul will be eager to deliver a stronger performance than his last outing in the Leagues Cup final.
- Leandro Paredes (CM): Having rejoined boyhood club Boca Juniors, Paredes steps in to cover the crucial absence of the suspended Enzo Fernández.
- Alexis Mac Allister (CM): Despite a delayed arrival to camp due to a missed flight, the Liverpool midfielder’s proven track record makes him an almost certain starter.
Forwards
- Lionel Messi (RW): The greatest player of all time will aim to add to his remarkable 34 goals in World Cup qualifiers in what could be his final official home game. The weight of expectation and emotion will be immense. For more on Messi’s incredible career, you can visit FIFA.com.
- Lautaro Martínez (ST): “El Toro” has started the Serie A season in fine form with a goal and an assist in two games, and will lead the line for Scaloni’s side.
- Julián Álvarez (LW): Despite a challenging start to La Liga with Atlético Madrid, Álvarez has been a bright spot and will start from the left, with the freedom to drift centrally and link up with Martínez.
A Night of History and High Stakes
This match promises to be a memorable occasion, blending the celebration of Argentina’s World Cup triumph with the potential farewell of its greatest icon, all while Venezuela fights for its own piece of history. The Estadio Mâs Monumental is expected to be a cauldron of noise, passion, and anticipation.
Football fans will be glued to their screens, not just for the competitive action, but to witness what could be a poignant chapter in the extraordinary career of Lionel Messi.
