BUENOS AIRES, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- Lionel Messi admitted that "the end is approaching" after leading Argentina to a 3-0 win over Venezuela at the Monumental Stadium in their World Cup qualifier on Thursday.
The 38-year-old scored twice in front of a sold-out crowd that treated the match as a farewell, with Messi openly acknowledging this could be his last competitive appearance in Argentina.
"Being able to finish this way here with my people is what I always dreamed of," an emotional Messi said after the match. "For many years I had the affection of Barcelona fans and my dream was to have it here in my country too."
Asked about retirement, Messi said: "It's not something I like, want or expect. But time is passing, and it's been many years. I love playing and I don't want it to end ever, but I'm also aware that the moment is approaching. It will happen naturally. I'll take it step by step."
The Inter Miami forward confirmed he would not travel to Ecuador for Argentina's final qualifier next Tuesday, citing his recovery from a hamstring injury last month.
"I spoke with the manager [Lionel Scaloni] and he said that I should rest," said Messi, who is the all-time leading scorer in South American qualifiers with 36 goals.
"I'm coming off an injury and while I'm fine now, we prefer to avoid traveling and playing another game. The best thing is to rest and prepare well for what's coming up because it's an important run with the MLS and then friendlies in October."
Argentina has already secured top spot in South American qualifying and will defend its World Cup title in the United States, Mexico and Canada next year. ■
