Messi Masterclass: Argentina Dominates Zambia 5-0 In Emotional Buenos Aires Friendly

BUENOS AIRES — In what may potentially be his final appearance on Argentine soil, Lionel Messi put on a vintage performance to lead the World Champions to a commanding 5-0 victory over Zambia on Tuesday night. After a sluggish showing against Mauritania last week, the Albiceleste silenced critics at a raucous Estadio Alberto José Armando (La Bombonera), with the captain involved in nearly every scoring sequence.

1. The Messi Effect: 90 Minutes of Magic

Despite Coach Lionel Scaloni emptying the bench in the second half, Messi played the full duration of the match, serving as the heartbeat of the Argentine attack.

• The Breakthrough: In the 4th minute, Messi sparked a sequence that allowed Julián Álvarez to find the back of the net. While Thiago Almada was credited with the assist, it was Messi’s vision that unlocked the Zambian defense.
• The 116th Goal: Just before the half-time whistle (43′), Messi orchestrated a sublime 1-2 with Alexis Mac Allister before firing a left-footed strike into the net. He celebrated by stretching his hands toward the fans, who responded by chanting his name in unison.
• The Leader: In the 47th minute, after Almada was fouled in the box, Messi stepped aside to let veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi take the penalty, which he converted to make it 3-0.
  
  2. Youth and Milestones

The night was also a showcase for the next generation of Argentine talent.

• Valentín Barco’s Moment: The rising star scored his first-ever goal for the national team in the closing minutes, finishing a cross from Nico González that was initiated by a signature Messi free kick.
• The “Accidental” Assist: Thiago Almada was a constant threat, earning the penalty and playing a role in the 68th-minute own goal by Zambia’s Dominic Chanda that pushed the lead to 4-0.
  
  3. Scaloni’s Redemption

Coach Scaloni was vocal about moving past the “lackluster” 2-1 win over Mauritania. “Today it was shown that it was an accident,” Scaloni remarked after the match. “The team working together manages to play well.” The fluidity displayed on Tuesday suggests the defending champions have regained their rhythm ahead of the next competitive window.

4. What’s Next for the GOAT?

Messi now transitions back to club duties for a historic weekend in the United States. He is expected to lead Inter Miami for the grand opening of their new Nu Stadium against Austin FC on April 4.

Match Timeline: Argentina 5, Zambia 0