Lionel Messi scored and assisted as Argentina thrashed Zambia 5-0 in their final home game before defending the World Cup title.
LIONEL Messi scored one goal and created another as Argentina thrashed Zambia 5-0 on Tuesday. The commanding victory served as the reigning world champions’ final match on home soil before their World Cup title defence.
The 38-year-old superstar was restored to the starting line-up by coach Lionel Scaloni. He made an instant impact in the friendly at La Bombonera stadium.
Messi set up the opening goal for Julian Alvarez after just four minutes. He then doubled Argentina’s lead with a fine individual strike just before half-time.
The goal was Messi’s 116th for his country and the 902nd of his illustrious career. He could have added another from the penalty spot early in the second half.
Instead, Messi handed the ball to veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi. The 38-year-old defender converted the spot-kick to make it 3-0.
An own goal from Dominic Chanda extended Argentina’s lead to 4-0. Rising star Valentin Barco completed the scoring in stoppage time.
Tuesday’s game was a World Cup send-off for the South American giants. They will face Algeria, Austria and Jordan in Group J of the finals in June.
Argentina will also play a friendly against Serbia in June. The team is seeking to arrange another warm-up fixture before the tournament begins.
Messi is firmly expected to captain Argentina at a record sixth World Cup finals. The Inter Miami playmaker once again demonstrated his enduring influence on the Albiceleste.
