World champions Argentina defeated Curaçao in a friendly international match 7-0, with captain Lionel Messi setting the tone with an incredible first-half hat-trick.
Twenty minutes into the game at Estadio nico Madre de Ciudades, the 35-year-old, who last year captained La Albiceleste to the FIFA World Cup 2022 victory, appeared in good shape.
Argentina’s lead was increased by Nicolas Gonzalez three minutes later, and Messi added his second with a deft finish three minutes later, according to Barca News.
After that, the former Barcelona captain helped Enzo Fernandez score in the 35th minute to make it 4-0, and Messi added his third goal in the 37th after another quick break.
In the second half, the Argentine captain was unable to add to his incredible total. But goals from Angel Di Maria and Gonzalo Montiel further humiliated Curaçao.
Messi now has a record-breaking 102 goals for Argentina after his hat trick. He also made history by being the first World Champion to score 100 goals abroad.
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While Messi continues to enjoy playing for Argentina. There has been much debate recently about his club future because his PSG contract is up this summer.
Although a trip to Barcelona is being discussed, it remains to be seen if he will visit Catalonia later this year.
This was the last action for Argentina until a reported June tour of Asia (June 14-20), where they will play two friendlies.
That will be followed by the opening of 2026 World Cup qualifying in September at home against Ecuador and then away at Bolivia.
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