Messi cuts inside from the right side of the box and fires with his left foot, but his early shot is blocked after a pass from Tagliafico. It’s Argentina’s first threatening action as Venezuela’s defense closes him down quickly.

From a corner routine, Messi swings in a dangerous cross that finds Agüero on the right side of the box, but the striker’s right‑footed shot drifts just wide to the left. Messi’s delivery creates a clear chance that Argentina fail to convert.

Messi receives a layoff from Lautaro Martínez and strikes left‑footed from outside the area, but his effort is blocked before it can test the keeper. Venezuela’s defenders step out quickly to smother his attempt.

Messi delivers a precise set‑piece cross into the box that finds Pezzella, whose header from the center sails just over the bar. His dead‑ball service once again creates danger for Venezuela.

Taking a direct free kick from outside the box, Messi curls a left‑footed effort that whistles just wide of the right post. It’s a close call that leaves the Venezuelan keeper rooted as the ball flashes past.

Messi drops deep into his own half and, under pressure, shields the ball and draws a foul to win a free kick in the defensive zone. The play relieves pressure and allows Argentina to reset their shape.

Late in the match, Messi threads a pass into Di María in the center of the box, setting up a shooting chance that is blocked by the Venezuelan defense. His incisive ball creates another dangerous opening that goes unconverted.