International Friendlies: In Argentina vs Panama match at River Plate Stadium, Lionel Messi netted his 800th career goal via a free kick. Prior to the game, manager Lionel Scaloni led the cheers as the FIFA World Cup 2022 trophy was unveiled in Buenos Aires. On Thursday, Argentina showcased the Qatar World Cup trophy at their home stadium before the kickoff. Fans and Scaloni were thrilled, and all joined in chanting Lionel Messi’s name. Follow FIFA Friendlies LIVE Updates on InsideSport.IN
The 35-year-old player lived up to the expectations of the fans, scoring a superb free-kick goal in the dying moments of the game. Thiago Almada also contributed to Argentina’s victory, scoring his first national goal in his third appearance for the team. As a result, the home team emerged victorious with a 2-0 scoreline.
Messi scores his 800th goal with this wonderful free kick. 🐐
— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) March 24, 2023
Lionel Messi reaches 800 goals
Messi has become the second football player in history to score 800 career goals, with Cristiano Ronaldo achieving the same milestone in 2021 after scoring a brace for Manchester United against Arsenal at Old Trafford.
During the game, Messi, coach Scaloni, and other players walked onto the pitch with their children as the national anthem played, creating an emotional moment for the 83,000 fans in attendance at the stadium.
Even Lionel Scaloni joined in the chants for Lionel Messi 😂 pic.twitter.com/Z447IKhY6P
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) March 24, 2023
A replica World Cup trophy was given to each Argentinian player
Each Argentina player got their own replica World Cup 🏆 pic.twitter.com/aco30Eawp8
— B/R Football (@brfootball) March 24, 2023
International Friendlies: Argentina vs Panama
Despite fielding a weakened team, Panama managed to hold Argentina at bay until the 78th minute when Almada, a second-half substitute from Atlanta United, broke the deadlock by converting Messi’s deflected free-kick. The home team dominated possession, holding onto the ball for 75% of the game.
In the dying moments of the match, Messi was awarded his fifth free-kick of the game. The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner curled the ball beautifully into the net to seal the victory.
Messi’s impressive career includes 778 appearances in national and club football. He spent 17 seasons at Barcelona, scoring 672 goals, before moving to Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1, where he has scored 29 goals to date.
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