Lionel Scaloni, the coach of Argentina, urged fans to enjoy watching star Lionel Messi in the match against Venezuela, which is likely to be the last official game for “La Pulga” in his homeland during the World Cup qualifiers.

The Argentine national team will face Venezuela early Friday in the 17th round, the penultimate round of the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Argentina has officially secured its spot in the World Cup, having won the last edition in 2022 in Qatar. They top the standings with 35 points, 10 points ahead of their closest rival Ecuador.

In a press conference held before the anticipated match against Venezuela, Scaloni dedicated touching words to Lionel Messi, reflecting the deep admiration and respect he holds for him, both as a former teammate on the field and as a player on his team.

Scaloni said: “Tomorrow’s match will be a very special and emotional moment. We are happy to have Lionel here, and we hope he and the fans can enjoy this moment.”

He added, “I played alongside him. Being his teammate and passing him the ball was an honor. Then to reach the World Cup together and win the title (2022 World Cup) is unbelievable. Only with time will we truly realize the greatness of what we experienced.”

The most poignant moment came when a journalist asked about Messi’s future with the national team and whether the Venezuela match might be a possible farewell for him on Argentine soil.

Scaloni appeared choked up, overcome with emotion, and could not hold back his tears, which ran down his cheeks amid the silent audience.

Scaloni indicated that the door for continuation is still open, but the final decision rests with Messi himself, adding, “This may not be his last match in Argentina. We will make sure to include him in another game.”