Lionel Messi remains a prominent figure in the world of football, continually capturing attention with his remarkable performances. Now 38, Messi is approaching what could be his last World Cup, and with it, a series of potential farewell moments. One such occasion might occur this Thursday when Argentina welcomes Bolivia in Buenos Aires.
This fixture marks the start of the penultimate World Cup qualifying round in South America, with Messi joining the world champions for their matches this month. Although Argentina secured their place in the 2026 World Cup back in March, this encounter is far from a standard game for the national squad. It could, notably, be Messi`s last competitive appearance on home soil in Argentina.
Despite speculation, the football icon has not yet confirmed his retirement and is expected to continue with the national team through the upcoming World Cup. However, his future beyond that tournament remains uncertain. His current contract with Inter Miami ends this year, and reports indicate a likely extension for at least another season, a factor that might influence his international career. Regardless, Messi`s opportunities for competitive matches with the national team are dwindling. While Argentina might host the next Copa America, that event isn`t until 2028. The qualification schedule for the subsequent World Cup cycle is still unconfirmed, but based on the 2026 cycle, competitive fixtures could resume by September 2027, by which time Messi would have already turned 40.
Thursday`s game is anticipated to carry a celebratory atmosphere, yet honoring Messi`s enduring legacy is not the sole objective. Bolivia faces a formidable challenge, not only in confronting the world champions but also in their pursuit of securing a spot at the upcoming World Cup, competing as one of three teams for a single remaining guaranteed berth in the North American tournament.
Match Details
Here’s what you need to know before tuning in:
- Date: Thursday, September 4
- Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadio Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- TV Broadcast: Universo
- Odds: Argentina -550; Draw +500; Bolivia +1100
Messi`s Future and Sentimental Occasion
The uncertainty surrounding Messi`s future has significantly overshadowed this match. Argentina`s head coach, Lionel Scaloni, much like Messi himself, has provided few definitive answers.
“Messi continues to be a game-changer; that`s the mark of exceptional players,” Scaloni remarked in a recent interview. “He has earned the privilege to decide when he will retire. For now, let`s savor his presence.”
In Buenos Aires this week, an intense excitement for Messi is palpable, particularly as fans rally around him amidst speculation of his potential retirement. His public appearances have drawn large crowds. Messi himself acknowledged the special nature of the occasion, previously stating that Thursday`s game would “be a very, very special match” for him, contributing to a deeply sentimental atmosphere, even without concrete announcements about his future plans.
CONMEBOL World Cup Qualification Scramble
Although many of CONMEBOL`s World Cup qualification positions are already secured, one guaranteed spot and an intercontinental playoff berth remain open. Venezuela finds itself in a three-way battle for these coveted places, competing with Colombia and Bolivia. While a direct qualification is a possibility, achieving it will be challenging.
Venezuela trails Colombia by four points, with Colombia currently holding the final guaranteed qualification spot, which they could secure with a victory over Bolivia. For Venezuela to overtake Colombia, they would need Colombia to falter and for themselves to secure a win against Argentina in a scheduled match. However, their World Cup aspirations won`t necessarily end if this specific scenario doesn`t unfold. As the penultimate qualifying round begins, Venezuela holds a one-point lead over Bolivia. They will aim to maintain this advantage in their upcoming match on Tuesday, when they host Colombia, while Bolivia simultaneously welcomes Brazil.
Should Venezuela succeed in clinching a World Cup spot, it would mark their inaugural appearance in the prestigious tournament.
