is a true great of the game, in every sense of the word. The little magician was sensational as romped to a 4-1 victory over Guatemala in a warm-up friendly ahead of the Copa America. The 36-year-old was instrumental his side's comeback victory after defender Lisandro Martinez diverted the ball into his own net inside the opening five minutes.
Not only did Messi guide his team to success, but he also further endeared himself to his teammates with an admirable gesture. Argentina head into the international tournament as the reigning champions after Lionel Scaloni's World Cup winners defeated rivals Brazil in the final in 2021. Their first group stage match against Canada is next on the agenda, with ties against Chile and Peru set to follow.
Argentina weren't behind for long as Messi was handed one of the easiest goals of his career by the opposition goalkeeper, who got his attempted clearance all wrong and played the ball straight to the ex-Barcelona superstar. He tucked the ball home as expected and went on to put Guatemala to the sword. Lionel Messi is Argentina's all-time top goalscorer with 106 strikes for the nation (50 more than second-placed Gabriel Batistuta).
Messi played a role in all four of the goals as he laid one on a plate for Martinez to tap in from close range before adding his second of the game. After being sent through on goal, the Inter Miami ace deftly shipped the ball past the on-rushing goalkeeper. It's a finish that can be incredibly difficult at speed.