Fri Sep 05 06:13:43 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the text:

**Headline: Messi Bids Farewell to Home Qualifiers with Two Goals in Argentina Victory**

**Buenos Aires, Argentina** – In a sold-out Estadio Monumental packed with 85,000 adoring fans, Lionel Messi delivered a memorable farewell performance in what he indicated would be his final home World Cup qualifier. The Argentine captain scored two goals in a dominant 3-0 victory over Venezuela on Thursday, securing his place as the all-time leading scorer in South American World Cup qualifying with 36 goals.

The stadium erupted as Messi found the net in the 39th and 80th minutes, adding to Lautaro Martinez’s 76th-minute goal. The victory solidified Argentina’s top spot in the South American qualifying standings with 38 points, a position they are guaranteed to hold regardless of their final match next Tuesday.

“Being able to finish this way here is what I’ve always dreamed of,” Messi told reporters after the match, expressing his joy at playing in front of the home crowd.

While Messi offered no immediate hints about retirement, he acknowledged that the 2030 World Cup qualifiers would begin when he is 40. He also addressed his participation in next year’s World Cup, stating that he will only compete if he feels physically up to the challenge. “It’s day by day, feeling the sensations. If I feel good, I enjoy it; if not, I’d rather not be there,” he said.

For Venezuela, the loss leaves their World Cup hopes hanging in the balance. Currently in seventh place with 18 points, they remain in contention for an intercontinental playoff spot as they seek their first-ever World Cup appearance.

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