Argentina dispatched Venezuela 3–0 in World Cup qualification, dominating possession with 76 per cent and registering 17 shots, nine of which found the target. Lionel Messi scored twice with Lautaro Martínez adding the third, as the hosts controlled the match from the outset in a 4–2–2–2 formation. Despite an expected goals tally of 2.51, Argentina's clinical finishing proved decisive against Venezuela's defensive 5–3–2 setup, which managed only five shots and none on target. Venezuela's goalkeeper made six saves to limit the damage, but the visitors offered little attacking threat throughout and were effectively neutralised in midfield. The victory underscores Argentina's superiority in the qualifying group.