Thu Sep 04 23:30:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Lionel Scaloni emotionally acknowledged that Lionel Messi’s upcoming World Cup qualifier against Venezuela in Buenos Aires is likely his last competitive game for Argentina on home soil. Scaloni emphasized Messi’s deserving of a special send-off and expressed hope for a proper farewell match in the future. Messi hinted at retiring after the next World Cup, where Argentina will defend their title. Argentina has already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, while Venezuela aims to qualify for the first time. Scaloni also mentioned uncertainties in Argentina’s preparations for the World Cup, including a potential Finalissima match against Spain.

**News Article:**

**Scaloni Chokes Back Tears, Calls for Messi’s “Special” Send-Off in Likely Final Home Qualifier**

BUENOS AIRES – In an emotionally charged pre-match press conference, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni struggled to contain his emotions as he discussed Lionel Messi’s anticipated final World Cup qualifier on home soil against Venezuela. Scaloni emphasized the significance of the match, acknowledging it would likely be Messi’s last competitive appearance in front of Argentine fans.

“Yes, this is a match which Leo has said will be emotional, special, nice because it’s true that it’s our last qualifying match,” Scaloni said, wiping away tears. “We have to enjoy it as we’ve always been saying. More than anyone I will enjoy it.”

Scaloni called for fans to give the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner a proper send-off, stating, “Having been able to coach him has honestly been a pleasure and let’s hope that fans who go to the stadium will also enjoy it because he truly deserves it.”

While Messi has hinted at retirement after the 2026 World Cup, Scaloni expressed hope for a more official farewell match down the line. “I’m sure that it won’t be his last game in Argentina and I say that we’ll make sure that if he decides it’s the last game, we play another because it’s obvious to do that in the right moment and because he deserves it.”

Argentina has already secured their spot in the 2026 World Cup, to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Venezuela, coached by fellow Argentine Fernando Batista, is fighting for their first-ever World Cup qualification.

Scaloni also addressed the challenges of securing quality opponents for pre-World Cup friendlies, citing scheduling conflicts with European teams due to the Nations League. He acknowledged uncertainty surrounding a potential Finalissima match against Spain, dependent on Spain’s final position in UEFA qualifying.

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