‘I love playing football... don’t want it to ever end’: Messi after home swansong

Lionel Messi scored twice as Argentina cruised past Venezuela 3-0 on Friday morning (Bangladesh time) in what the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner described as his final home World Cup qualifier.

The 38-year-old, who has yet to announce when he will retire, hinted at the significance of the occasion.

"I love this, I love playing football and I don't want it to ever end, but I'm also aware that the moment will eventually come… I want to take it step by step, feeling things day by day," Messi told reporters after the match.

Messi leaves the field after match at the Mas Monumental stadium. Photo: AFP

After missing a fortnight with a minor injury, Messi admitted that regaining rhythm had been a challenge.

"The truth is… I had been feeling really good, then I had… the injury that left me out, although it was only 15 days. It broke my rhythm, because when I came back I… didn't feel comfortable.

"And well, fortunately now I've played three matches in a row. I hope to finish the year well… to then start a good preseason," he said.

Argentina, already assured of a place in next year's World Cup, dominated from the outset. Nicolas Tagliafico and Franco Mastantuono tested Venezuela goalkeeper Rafael Romo, but it was Messi who finally broke the deadlock in the 39th minute, latching onto Julian Alvarez's pass and curling a precise shot into the top-right corner.

Messi breaks the deadlock. Photo: Reuters

The second half saw Messi remain the focus of Argentina's attack. Nico Gonzalez's cross in the 76th minute found Lautaro Martinez, who powered a diving header past Romo. Four minutes later, Messi wrapped up the scoring with a clinical finish set up by Thiago Almada, leaving the home fans in celebration.

Messi to skip Argentina's next match

Messi, however, will sit out Argentina's final group match against Ecuador next week. Speaking about the decision, Messi explained, "I have talked with Scaloni and we decided that I should rest and not travel… I'm coming off an injury. Even though I'm already fine, we preferred to avoid me traveling and having to play another match. I need to rest well and prepare properly for what's coming."

Coach Lionel Scaloni reiterated: "Leo Messi will not play against Ecuador. He's not going to travel. He has put in a huge effort and deserves well-deserved rest and to be with his family."

Scaloni watches on during the game. Photo: Reuters

With the win, Argentina top the South American qualifying table with 38 points and now turn their attention to Ecuador, while Venezuela hosts Colombia with hopes of keeping their World Cup dreams alive. For Messi, Thursday's performance will linger as a poignant reminder of his enduring brilliance on home soil.