Argentina extended their flawless World Cup qualifying run with a 3-0 win against Venezuela, keeping a remarkable record of 11 clean sheets in 12 victories.
Lionel Messi, possibly playing his last game on home soil for his country, led the team out alongside his three sons in a touching moment at the Estadio Monumental.
The captain marked the night with two goals, taking his tally to 113 for Argentina.
Julian Alvarez was instrumental throughout, his early efforts forcing saves from Rafael Romo before setting up Messi for the opener just before half-time.
Substitute Lautaro Martinez doubled the advantage with his first touch after coming on, and Messi sealed the win late on from Thiago Almada’s precise assist.
Venezuela, the only CONMEBOL nation never to qualify for the World Cup, struggled to contain Argentina despite showing flashes through Salomón Rondón.
In the end, La Albiceleste’s intensity and quality proved too strong as Lionel Scaloni’s side continued their dominant march to 2026.
