Quick Read
- Lionel Messi scored and assisted as Argentina defeated Zambia 5-0 in a friendly match.
- The victory served as a final home tune-up for Argentina before the 2026 World Cup.
- Veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi also scored, receiving a penalty from Messi in his potential final home game.
BUENOS AIRES (Azat TV) – Lionel Messi delivered a signature performance, scoring a goal and contributing to multiple others as Argentina secured a resounding 5-0 victory over Zambia in an international friendly on Tuesday, March 31, at La Bombonera stadium. The match served as a final home tune-up for the defending champions before their departure to defend their title at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Messi Stars in Dominant Argentine Display
The 38-year-old Inter Miami star ignited the scoring early, setting up Julián Álvarez in the fourth minute with a play that began with his involvement. Messi then doubled Argentina’s lead just before halftime, netting his 116th international goal in the 43rd minute after a fluid sequence of passes with Alexis Mac Allister. The crowd erupted in a standing ovation, chanting his name and urging him to lead Argentina to another World Cup title. The global tournament is set to kick off on June 11 in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Otamendi and Barco Add to Scoreline
In the second half, Argentina continued to assert their dominance. Nicolás Otamendi converted a penalty kick in the 50th minute, an opportunity he was famously gifted by Messi. Otamendi, who announced his retirement from the national team following the World Cup, expressed his gratitude for the send-off. “There is no greater satisfaction than wearing the national team jersey. I am very happy to have had this send-off at home,” Otamendi stated. Valentín Barco also marked his first career national team goal in the final minutes, converting a free-kick initiated by Messi. An own goal by Zambia’s Dominic Chanda in the 68th minute further extended Argentina’s lead.
Argentina’s World Cup Preparations
The commanding win offered a significant boost in confidence for Argentina, following a somewhat lackluster 2-1 victory over Mauritania just days prior. Coach Lionel Scaloni acknowledged the team’s improved rhythm, stating, “The important thing is that what happened the other day doesn’t happen again. I think today it was shown that it was an accident, and the team working together manages to play well.” Messi, a constant threat throughout the match, played the full 90 minutes, showcasing his enduring influence on the pitch. This performance solidifies Argentina’s preparations as they aim to repeat their 1978, 1986, and 2022 World Cup triumphs. Argentina will open their 2026 World Cup campaign against Algeria on June 16 in Group J.
The dominant performance against Zambia, highlighted by Lionel Messi’s continued brilliance and the integration of new talent like Valentín Barco, signals Argentina’s readiness to defend their World Cup title, addressing lingering concerns from their previous outing and providing a fitting send-off for veterans like Nicolás Otamendi.