Argentina defeats Zambia 5-0 in friendly match

On April 1, 2026, the Argentina national football team played a friendly match against Zambia at the Alberto J. Armando stadium in Buenos Aires, securing a 5-0 victory. Goals were scored by Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez, Nicolas Otamendi, and Valentin Barco, along with an own goal. During the event, 38-year-old Lionel Messi was visibly emotional, leading to speculation that this may have been his final match representing Argentina on home soil. While Messi has not officially announced his retirement from the national team, media reports and public sentiment suggest this appearance may serve as his domestic farewell before the 2026 World Cup. Messi scored the team's second goal in the 43rd minute. The match concluded with significant public appreciation for the player from the attending crowd. The status of his international career remains unconfirmed by the athlete himself.