Lionel Messi lit up Buenos Aires on Thursday night with two goals in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Venezuela, as Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay also confirmed their places at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With Argentina already assured of qualification, Messi struck in the 39th and 80th minutes at the packed Mas Monumental Stadium, where 80,000 fans witnessed an emotional evening. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, playing his final home qualifier, shared the occasion with his three sons and father Jorge in attendance.
Despite turning 39 during next year’s tournament in North America, Messi showed he remains central to Lionel Scaloni’s plans as the reigning champions prepare to defend their crown.
Elsewhere in South America, Uruguay sealed their World Cup ticket with a commanding 3-0 home win over Peru in Montevideo. Rodrigo Aguirre’s early header set the tone before Giorgian de Arrascaeta and Federico Vinas completed the scoring in front of a jubilant 60,000-strong crowd. The result confirmed qualification for coach Marcelo Bielsa, who has now led a third national team to the World Cup.
Colombia also cruised through, defeating Bolivia 3-0. Veteran playmaker James Rodriguez opened the scoring, with Jhon Cordoba and Juan Fernando Quintero adding second-half goals to secure passage.
Paraguay earned the point they needed with a goalless draw at home to Ecuador, booking their ninth World Cup appearance and their first since 2010.
Brazil had already confirmed their spot in the expanded 2026 edition, while Venezuela remain in contention for the playoff place heading into the final round of qualifiers.
