Messi Leads Argentina to Positive Result in the Last Warm-up Match Ahead of the 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi was impressive in Argentina's last warm-up match before the 2026 World Cup (Instagram/@afaseleccionen).

JAKARTA - Captain Lionel Messi led Argentina to a 5-0 victory over Zambia on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 WIB, at La Bombonera in an emotional farewell match in front of the fans before leaving to defend their title at the 2026 World Cup.

Messi got the chance to play as a starter for the first time in the March 2026 international break in a match that is expected to be his last for Argentina at home.

After appearing as a substitute in the first half against Mauritania on Saturday, March 28, 2026, the Inter Miami star provided an assist to Julian Alvarez in the fourth minute to give Argentina an early lead.

Messi doubled the lead just before halftime, scoring his 116th international goal and his 902nd in his career.

In the second half, La Albiceleste got a penalty. Messi gave the ball to veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi, giving him the opportunity to score in his last home game after announcing his retirement from the Argentina National Team after the 2026 World Cup.

"There is no greater satisfaction than wearing the Argentina national team uniform. I am very happy to get a farewell like this at home."

"It's been a long journey, filled with a lot of joy and some sadness because that's the nature of football."

"I leave with the feeling that I have given my best for the Argentine national team, always ready and willing to defend this uniform," Otamendi said after the match.

Zambia's own goal in the 68th minute and another scored by Valentin Barco gave Argentina a 5-0 victory.

"We really want to play in the Finalissima, but it's still important to come together in these last few days," said Tottenham defender Cristian Romero.

Argentina raised concerns after their less than satisfactory performance in the match against Mauritania which ended in a 2-1 victory.

Ahead of the friendly against Zambia, coach Lionel Scaloni has warned that if the team does not improve its performance, he will take drastic action regarding the 2026 World Cup squad of 26 players, which must be submitted no later than May 30, 2026.

"The important thing is that what happened a few days ago does not happen again. I think today it was proven that it was an accident and the team that worked together managed to play well," said Scaloni after the 5-0 victory.