Few fixtures in South American football embody such contrast as Argentina vs Venezuela. On one side, the two-time World Cup and multiple Copa América champions; on the other, La Vinotinto, a nation once dismissed as underdogs but gradually carving out a reputation as a rising force. The 21st century has brought moments of dominance, shock upsets, emotional farewells, and unforgettable performances.
Here’s a deep dive into the ten most memorable Argentina–Venezuela encounters of the 21st century, ranked not by chronology but by drama, importance, and legacy.
1. Venezuela 1–0 Argentina (2011, World Cup Qualifier, Puerto La Cruz)
If one match symbolized Venezuela’s footballing awakening, it was this. On October 11, 2011, history was made when Fernando Amorebieta’s header stunned Argentina and handed Venezuela their first-ever victory over La Albiceleste.
For decades, Venezuelan football was an afterthought in South America, overshadowed by baseball and dismissed as easy points in qualifying. But that night, La Vinotinto announced themselves to the world. Argentina, captained by Messi and packed with stars, were left shell-shocked.
For Venezuelans, it wasn’t just a win — it was a declaration: they belonged at football’s top table.
2. Argentina 3–0 Venezuela (2022, World Cup Qualifier, Buenos Aires)
The Monumental was electric. Fans weren’t just there for a qualifier — they came for a farewell. Lionel Messi had hinted this might be his last World Cup qualifier at home, and the atmosphere was nothing short of celebratory.
Argentina, already qualified for Qatar 2022, played with freedom. Nico González and Ángel Di María struck before Messi himself delivered the final blow, sending 70,000 fans into delirium.
The game mattered little for standings, but emotionally, it was seismic. It was Messi’s night — a celebration of Copa América 2021, the Finalissima triumph, and Argentina’s newfound unity.
3. Argentina 4–1 Venezuela (2016, Copa América Centenario Quarterfinal, USA)
The Copa América Centenario in the United States offered Messi another stage to shine, and against Venezuela, he was irresistible.
At Foxborough, Argentina raced into a lead with Higuaín’s double, before Messi added a third, equaling Gabriel Batistuta’s scoring record for Argentina. Venezuela had their chances — most notably Luis Seijas’s infamous Panenka penalty that failed miserably — but the gulf in quality was clear.
The 4-1 win was about more than progression; it was a reminder that with Messi orchestrating, Argentina were devastating. For Venezuela, the missed penalty became a haunting memory of what could have been.
4. Argentina 4–0 Venezuela (2007, Copa América Quarterfinal, Venezuela)
Copa América 2007 was historic for Venezuela — the first time the nation hosted the tournament. La Vinotinto’s passionate fans dreamed of a fairytale run, but when they ran into Argentina in the quarterfinal, reality struck.
With Riquelme pulling strings, Messi dazzling, and Tevez scoring, Argentina dismantled the hosts 4-0 in Maracaibo. The defeat was painful for Venezuelans, but the atmosphere reflected something bigger — the nation had embraced football like never before.
For Argentina, it was a showcase of their golden generation at full throttle. For Venezuela, it was proof they could stand on the big stage, even if humbled.
5. Venezuela 2–2 Argentina (2008, World Cup Qualifier, San Cristóbal)
Long before Amorebieta’s winner in 2011, Venezuela had been steadily gaining confidence, and this 2-2 draw symbolized that growth.
Giancarlo Maldonado struck for Venezuela, while Argentina responded through Messi and Riquelme. But instead of folding, La Vinotinto clawed back to equalize late, securing a valuable point.
For neutrals, it was a thrilling contest. For Venezuela, it was validation — they could fight back against giants, no longer pushovers.
6. Argentina 3–1 Venezuela (2019, Copa América Quarterfinal, Brazil)
By 2019, Venezuela had developed into one of the continent’s most disciplined sides. They entered the Copa América in Brazil with optimism, but once again, Argentina stood in their way.
Lautaro Martínez scored a clever flick early, and though Venezuela battled, Lo Celso and Messi’s influence proved decisive in a 3-1 win.
It wasn’t a rout like 2007, but Argentina’s experience showed. For Venezuela, reaching the quarterfinals was still a marker of progress, but the gap remained clear.
7. Venezuela 1–3 Argentina (2021, World Cup Qualifier, Caracas)
Fresh from their Copa América triumph in 2021, Argentina played with swagger. Facing Venezuela in Caracas, they delivered a confident performance.
Lautaro Martínez, Joaquín Correa, and Ángel Correa all found the net in a 3-1 victory. Messi, though not on the scoresheet, orchestrated attacks with ease.
For Argentina, it was the beginning of a new era — one where they played like champions. For Venezuela, it was another lesson in the brutal reality of South American qualifiers.
8. Argentina 1–1 Venezuela (2017, World Cup Qualifier, Buenos Aires)
Perhaps no result better reflected Argentina’s qualifying struggles for Russia 2018 than this. Needing points, they faced Venezuela at home, expecting a routine win.
Instead, Jhon Murillo stunned with a counterattack goal, silencing the Monumental. Mauro Icardi rescued a point, but the 1-1 draw left Argentina’s World Cup hopes hanging by a thread.
For Venezuela, it was another morale-boosting result — frustrating giants in their own backyard.
9. Argentina 4–0 Venezuela (2012, Friendly in Kolkata, India)
Not all iconic matches are competitive. This one was about location and spectacle. Played in Kolkata, India, before a packed Salt Lake Stadium, Messi led Argentina to a dazzling 4-0 win.
He scored, assisted, and thrilled fans who rarely saw football of this level live. For Indian supporters, it was unforgettable. For Argentina, it was an exhibition; for Venezuela, a tough lesson.
Sometimes, football is bigger than the scoreline — this was one of those nights.
10. Argentina 3–2 Venezuela (2000, World Cup Qualifier, Maracaibo)
The first Argentina–Venezuela qualifier of the new millennium was a thriller. Crespo and Ortega gave Argentina control, but Juan Arango inspired a Venezuelan fightback.
In the end, Argentina edged 3-2, but Venezuela’s resilience foreshadowed the battles to come.
📝 Patterns and Themes
Argentina’s dominance: The Albiceleste have consistently asserted superiority, especially in Copa knockouts.
Venezuelan breakthroughs: From the 2-2 draw in 2008 to the seismic 2011 win, Venezuela’s growth is evident.
Messi’s legacy: Across these clashes, Messi has been central — dazzling in Centenario 2016, celebrated in 2022, and inspiring throughout.
Emotional weight: Whether Venezuela’s first win or Messi’s farewell qualifier, these matches often carried meaning beyond points.
⚽ Final Word
Argentina vs Venezuela may not be South America’s fiercest rivalry, but it has quietly produced moments of history, heartbreak, and joy. For Argentina, it’s often about dominance and Messi’s brilliance. For Venezuela, it’s about progress, pride, and that unforgettable night in Puerto La Cruz.
As the 21st century marches on, one thing is certain: when these two nations meet, it’s never just another game.