Lionel Messi Dropped A Masterclass For Argentina Vs Venezuela, It Was The Performance He Needed

Messi scored the third in the World Cup qualifier, with Nico Gonzalez and Angel Di Maria also on target at La Bombonera.

But he produced a performance full of freedom on Friday evening and it was one that was definitely needed.

Not for the first time, Messi absolutely ran the show - dictating play from deep and dribbling in and out of players like they weren't even over the course of the 90 minutes.

Some of his passes were just out of this world and reminded us that Messi remains the best playmaker in the business.

With his unparalleled vision, Messi's ability to split defences open with one pass is truly special and he did it time and time again.

His goal to seal the win came from a glorious chipped pass from Di Maria that found Messi's wonderfully timed run. His finish with his weaker right peg was a scruffy one but it was the least the 34-year-old deserved.

Someone made a six-minute compilation of Messi's latest outing, titled, "Lionel Messi Was Unstoppable Vs Venezuela" and we'd absolutely implore you to watch it.

Sofascore said it was a "standout display" from the Albiceleste skipper and gave him a 9.3 rating.

Messi had 124 touches, four out of five accurate long balls, completed three key passes and six out of nine attempted dribbles.

Argentina have now gone 30 games unbeaten under Lionel Scaloni and the Copa America holders look in fine form ahead of the World Cup later this year.

But Messi could well have played his final national team fixture on Argentine soil and has hinted at retiring from international football after the next showpiece, by which time he will be 35.

"I am thinking about what is coming. After Qatar I will have to reassess many things.

"I don't know, the truth is I don't know. I think about what is coming, which is close, Ecuador (on Tuesday). The preparation matches in June and September."

"Let's hope these go the best way possible. But for sure after the World Cup many things will change."