Lionel Messi scored twice as Argentina defeated Venezuela 3-0 in Buenos Aires on Thursday, while Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay also booked their spots at the 2026 World Cup.
Argentina, already qualified, saw Messi find the net in the 39th and 80th minutes at the Mas Monumental Stadium. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, who will be 39 at the next World Cup, was celebrated by 80,000 fans in what was likely his final home qualifier. His three sons and father, Jorge, joined him for the emotional occasion.
Elsewhere, Uruguay secured qualification with a 3-0 win over Peru in Montevideo. Rodrigo Aguirre’s early header set the tone before Giorgian de Arrascaeta and Federico Vinas added goals. Coach Marcelo Bielsa, 70, has now led three different national teams to World Cup qualification.
Colombia also advanced after a 3-0 victory against Bolivia. James Rodriguez opened the scoring in the 34th minute, followed by goals from Jhon Cordoba and Juan Fernando Quintero.
Paraguay, needing only a draw, sealed their place with a 0-0 result at home against Ecuador. It will be their ninth World Cup appearance and first since 2010.
Brazil had already qualified earlier, while Venezuela remain seventh with one qualifier left.
