PAMPLONA: Lionel Messi scored five goals as Argentina completely thrashed out European opponents Estonia with an unbeaten 5-0 in an international friendly match, here on Sunday.
The inspirational feat by the Argentinian captain, who has scored 86 goals in 162 international appearances, enabled his country to remain undefeated in 33 international games after an easy win over Estonia.
Messi completely dominated the opponents as he scored two goals in the first half with an opening goal in the 8th minute and the second one in the last minute before halftime.
The 34-year-old Messi waited for the break to complete his hat-trick two minutes after the game resumed in the second half. Messi continued with his exceptional form and made two more strikes in the 71st and 76th minutes.
Last week Argentina defeated Italy 3-0 in the first Finalissima encounter between the South American and European champions, with Messi contributing two assists. He helped Argentina win the Copa America last year, which was his first major achievement for the national team.
The international friendlies are part of Argentina’s preparation for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 which will be held in November. Argentina are in Group C along with Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and Poland.
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