Messi Argentina World Cup 2026 hopes rise as he scores twice vs Venezuela; Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay also qualify for the tournament

Messi Argentina World Cup 2026 journey took another powerful turn on Thursday night as the legendary forward scored twice in an emotional 3-0 win over Venezuela in Buenos Aires.

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Playing in what could be his final home qualifier, Lionel Messi, now 38, delighted the 80,000 fans at the Mas Monumental stadium with goals in the 39th and 80th minutes.

It was a fitting tribute to one of football’s greatest players, who had his three sons and father Jorge Messi by his side before kickoff.

Although Argentina had already qualified, the night was about more than points—it was a celebration of Messi’s lasting legacy.

“He may be turning 39 at the 2026 tournament, but Messi shows no signs of fading. His influence on Argentina remains enormous.”

Meanwhile, Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay joined the reigning world champions in securing spots at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place in USA, Canada, and Mexico.

At a buzzing Estadio Centenario in Montevideo, Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay eased past Peru 3-0, sealing their World Cup berth with style.

• Rodrigo Aguirre opened the scoring with a powerful header
• Giorgian de Arrascaeta made it two after the break
• Federico Vinas sealed the deal late on

Bielsa, now 70, becomes one of the rare coaches to take three different teams to the World Cup, continuing his legacy despite early campaign stumbles.

Colombia also punched their ticket with a 3-0 win over Bolivia.

Star veteran James Rodriguez scored first, followed by strikes from Jhon Cordoba and Juan Fernando Quintero, ensuring safe passage for the 2014 quarter-finalists.

Paraguay secured qualification with a gritty 0-0 draw against Ecuador, ensuring their first World Cup appearance since 2010.

With Brazil and Ecuador already qualified, and six CONMEBOL teams heading directly to the 2026 tournament, competition remains fierce for the final playoff spot.

Venezuela, currently seventh, still has a chance.

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As the tournament nears, Messi Argentina World Cup 2026 buzz continues to grow, with fans wondering—can Messi lift the trophy once again in what may be his final World Cup?