Sophia
In a night steeped in emotion and historic farewells, Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Venezuela delivered more than just three points. It was a poignant occasion for La Albiceleste fans, witnessing what was likely Lionel Messi’s final competitive match on home soil. Amidst the celebrations and farewells, an 18-year-old Real Madrid star, Franco Mastantuono, found himself at the center of a lighthearted yet memorable interaction with the legendary captain.
Messi’s Emotional Farewell and a Youngster’s Debut
The Estadio Monumental buzzed with anticipation on Thursday night. Messi, who has already confirmed he will not feature against Ecuador next Tuesday, marked his likely final World Cup qualifier on home turf with a stunning brace. It was a performance befitting a legend, offering fans a final taste of his magic in an Argentina shirt on familiar ground.
Adding another layer of significance to the evening, Franco Mastantuono, the prodigious 18-year-old Real Madrid talent, earned his first-ever start for Argentina. Flanking Messi in attack, Mastantuono showcased flashes of his immense potential, looking sharp and eager to impress.
A Moment of Miscommunication and Messi’s Frustration
However, an amusing incident in the first half provided a moment of levity and a glimpse into Messi’s competitive spirit. During a promising attack, Mastantuono inadvertently got in Messi’s way, denying the captain a clear shooting opportunity. The miscommunication was evident, and Messi’s frustration, though fleeting, was clear for all to see.
Post-match, when asked about the incident, Mastantuono couldn’t help but laugh as he recounted the exchange, admitting, “Yeah, he wanted to kill me!” He quickly added, “But he understood and I said I was sorry for the play.” This candid admission highlights the intensity of the moment and the respect the young player holds for his idol.
Dream Come True for a Young Real Madrid Star
Mastantuono’s admiration for Messi is no secret. He has openly declared Messi as the greatest player of all time, a sentiment common among Argentinians but less so for a player representing Real Madrid, Barcelona’s fiercest rivals. Sharing the pitch with his hero was a dream realized for the former River Plate man.
“It was incredible to play alongside him. It truly was the dream of my life,” Mastantuono gushed after the match. “To be able to play with him today, at River’s [River Plate] pitch no-less, it’s something incredible.” He continued, “He’s my idol since I was a little kid. I watched him his whole career growing up. Today, seeing him be able to bid farewell like this is what he deserved and what we all wanted to see.”
The Future: A Potential Heir to the Throne?
While Messi’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains uncertain, the prospect of him once again sharing the pitch with Mastantuono is an exciting one. The Real Madrid youngster is widely regarded as one of the sport’s most thrilling emerging talents, and many believe he could eventually inherit Messi’s iconic No. 10 shirt for La Albiceleste.
This encounter, though marked by a humorous moment of miscommunication, symbolizes a passing of the torch and the enduring legacy of a player who continues to inspire generations. For more insights into the world of soccer, including the latest transfer rumors and match reactions, stay tuned to our soccer news feed.
