Messi's home farewell grabs spotlight as South American qualifiers enter final stretch

Lionel Messi is set to play his final World Cup qualifier in Argentina on Thursday, while four South American teams are still competing for the remaining automatic places at the 2026 tournament in what could be a dramatic climax.

The 38-year-old Argentina captain will take to the pitch at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires to face Venezuela in what he describes as a very special match, with his family set to be in attendance, including his wife, children, parents and siblings, according to Reuters.

"It's going to be very special for me because it will be my last qualifying match. I don't know if there will be friendlies or more matches after that," the eight-times Ballon d'Or winner said last week.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni told reporters on Wednesday that it was "going to be emotional, special and beautiful".

"If it really is the last qualifying match, we have to enjoy it," he said.

While Argentina have secured their World Cup berth, topping the table in South America's qualifying competition with 35 points, three automatic qualification spots are still to be determined ahead of Thursday's fixtures and the final matchday on September 9.