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Lionel Messi, 38, has indicated that Argentina's World Cup qualifier against Venezuela on September 4 at Buenos Aires' Estadio Monumental may be his last home appearance in the competition. Speaking after Inter Miami's Leagues Cup semifinal win, Messi described the match as "very special" and said his family would be present. Argentina have already qualified for the 2026 World Cup and lead the South American qualifying table. Messi is expected to play in the next qualifier against Ecuador on September 9, which will be an away game. While he has not officially announced retirement from international football, this match could mark the end of an era for local fans. Messi has made 193 World Cup qualifier appearances and scored 31 goals, with the 2022 World Cup victory in Qatar as a career highlight. His future beyond these qualifiers remains uncertain, with no confirmation of further friendlies or matches after September 4. (Updated 29 Aug 2025, 02:19 IST; source: link)