For many, Messi is the most important football player in Argentina’s history, so the beginning of his parting with Albiceleste is both melancholy and exciting.
Leo is by no means a youngster, but even at 38 he continues to show that he is at a great level, and even though he faced modest opponents such as Zambia today, the ’10’ continues to show that he still has magic in him.
Messi leads the party at home with goals and assists
Argentina won 5-0 against Zambia in a game that featured a clear protagonist in Lionel Messi.
The captain not only scored and assisted, but also scored for Argentina against 40 different national teams, reaching a historic milestone and reaffirming his international achievements.
Lionel Scaloni’s side showed control of the match, although it wasn’t very intense from the start.
Argentina beat Zambia 5-0
The first blow came thanks to Julian Alvarez after a play started by Messi. From then on, there wasn’t much depth, but it was completely dominated.
Before the break, Messi extended his lead with a precise finish and cemented his role as the night’s star. In the second half, the number 10 gave away a penalty to Nicolas Otamendi, who converted it and it was a farewell on Argentine soil.
The gesture reflected the captain’s leadership and camaraderie and was one of the most emotional moments of the match.
New lineup and strengthening of foundation
The match also gave Scaloni an opportunity to test out different options, with players such as Valentin Barco, Nico Paz and Maximo Perrone receiving valuable playing time.
Argentina improved in the second half, showing even more dynamism and strength. An own goal and Barco’s goal decided the result, and the match was a monologue.
Messi gives Otamendi a penalty
Nicolas Otamendi recently confirmed that the World Cup will be his farewell tournament with the Argentina national team, making today his last game in Argentina wearing the Albiceleste. That’s why Messi awarded him a penalty so that the historic Argentine centre-back could score in front of the fans and say goodbye.
Messi’s farewell to the national team is nearing
Although there is no official confirmation, everything suggests that this could be Messi’s last game at home in an Albiceleste shirt. Every connection with the crowd, every intervention, every applause had a special resonance.
Beyond the opponents, the match left an overall good feeling and allowed them to make adjustments for the 2026 World Cup.
