Early on Friday, September 5 (IST), Lionel Messi-captained Argentina defeated Venezuela in a CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifier match, played at the Estadio Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti in Buenos Aires.
During the 3-0 win over Venezuela, the 38-year-old captain scored twice whereas Lautaro Martinez scored one to their side victorious in their home match.
The reigning World Cup champions dominated from the outset, creating early chances through Nicholas Tagliafico and Franco Mastantuono, but were denied by Venezuelan goalkeeper Rafael Romo. However, the breakthrough came in the 39th minute with Julian Alvarez setting up Messi, who found the back of the net with his left foot volley.
Messi’s brace takes Argentina to top of South American qualifying table
Argentina continued to create pressure as Lautaro Martinez doubled the lead in the 76th minute and Messi added another to his name just four minutes later. In the final goal, which is being speculated as Messi’s last home game, Almada came down right and with a perfect pass found Messi free in the box. The Inter Miami star made no mistake and got his 34th goal in what was his 72nd appearance in a CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier.
With a 3-0 win, Argentina remain at top of the South American qualifying table with 38 points. Meanwhile, their opponents hold only nine points to their name. The Messi-led side will next take on Ecuador in their final group match on September 10 in an away match.
