In what is being widely regarded as his final match on home soil before the upcoming World Cup, Lionel Messi delivered a vintage performance to lead Argentina to a commanding victory over Zambia.
The world champions defeated Zambia 5-0 on Wednesday (April 1) at the iconic La Bombonera.
Having come on as a substitute in the previous match against Mauritania, Messi was named in the starting lineup by coach Lionel Scaloni—a promise kept for the fans gathered to witness their captain’s potential domestic farewell.
Match Highlights
Argentina dominated from the opening whistle, securing a two-goal cushion before the break:
4th Minute: Messi initiated the first goal, receiving a long-range pass from Leandro Paredes before threading the ball into the box for Julián Álvarez, who finished with a powerful strike.
43rd Minute: Just before halftime, Messi found the net himself after a slick "one-two" play with Alexis Mac Allister, marking his goal against a 40th different national team—an Argentine record.
50th Minute: Nicolás Otamendi, also likely playing his final home match, converted a penalty earned by Thiago Almada.
Late Stages: The lead was extended via an own goal by Zambian defender Dominic Chanda under heavy pressure, before Valentín Barco added a fifth in stoppage time.
Looking Toward 2026
Argentina finishes the March international window with two wins, following their 2-1 victory over Mauritania.
According to the current schedule, these were the final matches to be played in Argentina before the 2026 World Cup kicks off in North America on June 11.
Reports from Argentine media suggest the Albiceleste will play two more friendly matches abroad before the tournament begins, with Serbia mentioned as a potential opponent for one of those fixtures.
