Messi Scores 116th Argentina Goal in Dominant 5-0 Win Over Zambia

Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass at La Bombonera on Tuesday, scoring his 116th goal for Argentina and setting up another as the reigning world champions thrashed Zambia 5-0 in a commanding farewell on home soil. Recalled to the starting lineup by coach Lionel Scaloni following a sluggish display against Mauritania, the 38-year-old Inter Miami talisman wasted no time reminding the world why he remains irreplaceable.

Messi Pulls the Strings from the First Whistle

Julian Alvarez opened the scoring inside four minutes after Messi’s deft control and perfectly weighted through-ball set the Atletico Madrid striker free. Messi then added Argentina’s second just before half-time, combining neatly with Alexis Mac Allister before slotting a composed low finish past goalkeeper Willard Mwanza — the 902nd goal of his storied career. When Argentina were awarded a penalty after the break, Messi generously handed the ball to veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi, who converted confidently to make it 3-0.

A Fitting World Cup Send-Off at La Bombonera

The victory served as the ideal send-off for the Albiceleste ahead of their World Cup title defence in June. Argentina, drawn in Group J, will face Algeria, Austria, and Jordan at the tournament, where they target an unprecedented back-to-back triumph. A dominant own goal from Dominic Chanda and a late strike from rising star Valentin Barco completed the rout, with Messi’s influence felt throughout every phase of an authoritative performance.