Lionel Messi gets emotional as he plays final match in Argentina

Argentina’s football icon Lionel Messi reportedly fought back tears as he played what is likely to be his last game in his home town. The legend scored his 116th international goal in a 5-0 victory over Zambia on Tuesday night at La Bombonera.

The 38-year-old forward footballer, recalled to the starting line-up by coach Lionel Scaloni, played a pivotal role in the dominant win, which served as a send-off fixture ahead of Argentina’s World Cup title defence later this year.

As per reports, Messi set the tone early, creating the opening goal for Julián Álvarez in the fourth minute with a precise pass after controlling a lofted ball at the edge of the box. He then doubled Argentina’s lead just before half-time, scoring his 116th international goal with a composed finish following a one-two with Alexis Mac Allister.

As the match concluded, an emotional Messi was reportedly seen wiping away tears amid loud chants from the home crowd, marking what could be his final outing in front of Argentine fans.

Argentina extended their lead in the second half when Nicolás Otamendi converted a penalty, which Messi chose not to take after a foul on Thiago Almada. An own goal by Zambia’s Dominic Chanda and a late strike from Valentín Barco completed the scoring.

The reigning world champions will now turn their focus to the upcoming World Cup, where they are set to face Algeria, Austria and Jordan in the group stage. 

Messi is widely expected to captain Argentina in what would be his record sixth appearance at the tournament.

Argentina are also scheduled to play a friendly against Serbia in June and are exploring another warm-up fixture ahead of the competition.