Buenos Aires, Sept 5 (HS): Lionel Messi scored two brilliant goals as Argentina defeated Venezuela 3-0 on Thursday (Friday IST), capping their last home World Cup qualifier with a commanding victory.

The 38-year-old captain has not yet confirmed when he will retire from international football but indicated earlier that this match would likely be his final World Cup qualifying appearance on Argentine soil.

Already assured of their place at next year’s World Cup in North America, the reigning world champions dominated from the outset. Nicolás Tagliafico and Franco Mastantuono were denied early chances by Venezuelan goalkeeper Rafael Romo.

Messi opened the scoring in the 39th minute, finishing coolly on the counter after a precise through pass from Julián Álvarez.

Argentina continued to control the game after the break. Lautaro Martínez doubled the advantage in the 76th minute with a diving header from a cross by Nico González. Just four minutes later, Messi struck again — converting calmly from Thiago Almada’s assist to make it 3-0.

With this win, Argentina moved to the top of the South American qualifying table with 38 points. They will now travel to face Ecuador in their final group fixture on Tuesday.

Venezuela, meanwhile, will look to keep their qualification hopes alive when they host Colombia in their next outing.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar