Messi's Emotional Farewell: Argentina's Star-Studded Lineup Ready to Shine Against Venezuela on Home Turf
Argentina will welcome Venezuela for their concluding home fixture in the 2026 FIFA World Cup CONMEBOL Qualifiers, marking what promises to be a deeply moving occasion.
The Albiceleste has already secured qualification and will look to retain their World Cup title next summer, but the encounter against Venezuela has been highlighted on the schedule ever since Lionel Messi suggested this might be his last official appearance for the Albiceleste on Argentine territory.
The match will undoubtedly witness the Estadio Mâs Monumental erupt in support of the player who has captained Argentina for nearly twenty years.
However, the fixture holds crucial significance for Venezuela in their quest to secure their maiden World Cup berth. La Vinotinto will be determined to disrupt Messi's farewell celebration.
Enzo Fernández will be absent due to suspension. Apart from his unavailability, Lionel Scaloni is expected to deploy his most formidable starting eleven.
Here's how Argentina might line up against Venezuela on Sept. 4.
Argentina Predicted Lineup vs. Venezuela (4-3-3)
GK: Emiliano Martínez—Martínez waited throughout transfer deadline day for a Manchester United approach that never materialized. He'll guard the goal against Venezuela before heading back to Aston Villa.
RB: Nahuel Molina—Molina continues to be a reliable fixture in Scaloni's formation, an energetic player who covers extensive territory along the right wing.
CM: Cristian Romero—The new Tottenham Hotspur skipper is indispensable for Scaloni and typically elevates his performance when donning the Albiceleste jersey.
CM: Nicolás Otamendi—The experienced center-back will be charged with neutralizing veteran striker Salomón Rondón in an intriguing individual battle.
LB: Nicolás Tagliafico—Tagliafico ranks among the more overlooked talents in this Argentina squad. He's a reliable defender with extensive international experience.
CM: Rodrigo De Paul—De Paul will represent Argentina for the first time since his move to Inter Miami. He'll aim for an improved showing compared to his last outing when Miami were outplayed in the Leagues Cup final.
CM: Leandro Paredes—Paredes returned to childhood club Boca Juniors during the summer and will now be responsible for filling the void left by the suspended Fernández.
CM: Alexis Mac Allister—The Liverpool midfielder arrived at Argentina's training camp behind schedule after missing his European flight. Nevertheless, his established credentials make it difficult to imagine him being benched for this encounter.
RW: Lionel Messi—The football legend will aim to increase his record-setting 34 goals in World Cup qualifying matches in what could be his final official appearance on home soil.
ST: Lautaro Martínez—El Toro has recorded a goal and assist in two Serie A matches this season and will spearhead Scaloni's attack.
LW: Julián Álvarez—Álvarez has endured a challenging introduction to La Liga with Atlético Madrid, though he's been among the few positives. He'll operate from the left with license to drift inward and combine with Martínez.
