Highlights Show Lionel Messi Effortlessly Dropped A Masterclass For Argentina Against Chile

Lionel Messi casually dropped another masterclass for Argentina in a World Cup qualifier against Chile last night.

Messi scored the opener from the penalty spot in a 1-1 draw at the Estadio Único Madre de Ciudades, taking his international goals tally to 72 as he closes in on Pele's South American record.

It was Messi's first appearance for Argentina in 2021 and he was typically mesmeric and joyous with the ball at his feet.

As per usual, Lionel Scaloni's side were heavily reliant on their talisman and he orchestrated everything through mazy dribbles, defence-splitting passes and long-range efforts.

On another day Messi would have had a hatful of goals but his former teammate Claudio Bravo was in fine form in goal for Chile.

And when Bravo was beaten, the crossbar denied Messi when he curled in an archetypal free-kick just outside the box.

His highlights from the game make for truly wonderful viewing and it's probably not even in his top 100 career performances.

The draw means Argentina remain second in World Cup qualification, one point behind Brazil ahead of the Selecao's game against Ecuador later on this evening.

The game also served as preparation for Argentina's upcoming Copa America campaign and Messi was satisfied with the display.

Image: PA

"It had been a long time that we weren't together, it's not easy coming back but I think at times we played a good game," Messi said post-match, as per Mundo Albiceleste.

"I'm happy about the result, beyond that we couldn't win. little by little, we have to get stronger again."

Prior to the game, Argentina players wore shirts paying tribute to the legendary Diego Maradona as this was the first Albiceleste match since his passing in November.

Messi felt it was only right to honour the former Barcelona and Napoli forward.

"It was a very special match because it was the first one without Diego," the captain added.

"We know that the national team meant to him and we know that he was present. In addition, it was special for the situation in the country and in the world, it's a very difficult situation for everyone."

Topics: Chile, Football, Barcelona, Lionel Messi, Argentina

Josh Lawless

Josh is a sports journalist who specialises in football and wrestling. He has been published by Curzon Ashton FC, Late Tackle, Manchester City FC, The Mirror, Read Man City and Manchester Evening News. He provides coverage of professional wrestling and has interviewed some of the biggest names in the field - including the first UK interview with The Hardy Boyz after their return to WWE. He has never sported a pair of Lonsdale Slip-ons, contrary to reports.

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