Argentina trounced Estonia 5-0 in an enthralling international friendly at El Sadar on Sunday, with Lionel Messi scoring five goals.
Argentina came into the game with a trophy, having won the UEFA-CONMEBOL Finalissima on Wednesday, defeating Italy 3-0.
Estonia, at the other end, came off a 2-0 victory over San Marino in their season-opening Nations League match. This victory ended a five-game losing streak across all competitions (D1 L4).
After Igonen had taken out Pezzella, the Argentine captain grabbed the first of his five goals from the penalty mark just eight minutes into the game.
Lionel Messi is the first man to score five goals in a single European Cup / Champions League game AND a senior international game.
It's Lionel Me55i now. pic.twitter.com/iwA3LeL3J3
— Squawka (@Squawka) June 5, 2022
The 34-year-old doubled Argentina’s advantage on the stroke of half-time, smashing his ball over the keeper from a tight angle.
With a close-range goal just two minutes into the second half, he accomplished his hat-trick.
Messi’s fourth goal was a brilliant piece of individual play, and he secured the victory in the 76th minute with a spectacular solo effort.
Argentina’s unbeaten streak is still going strong, with the team having yet lost a game in 33 games.
Argentina haven’t lost a competitive game in nearly three years, and they’re trying to keep that streak rolling as they prepare for the World Cup.
Estonia’s attention now turns to their Nations League campaign, which kicks out with a match against Malta.