Lionel Messi: The Barcelona forward's best goals for Argentina as he retires from international football
A selection of the Argentine genius' finest strikes for his country
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.At the age of just 29, Lionel Messi has announced his international retirement following Argentina’s Copa America final defeat to Chile. It may yet be a decision he will reverse, and anyone that enjoys football will hope to see him at the World Cup in Russia in two years.
In the meantime, here are some of the finest of his 55 goals in an Argentina shirt.
Verses Mexico, 2007, Copa America
One his earliest, and one of his best. A 20 year old Messi receives the ball at the corner of the box. Two touches later, it’s arcing over the head of the flailing Mexican keeper.
Verses Brazil, 2010, Friendly
Similar to his Champions League semi-final wonder goal against Real Madrid, Messi settled this Doha friendly in the 92nd minute, with a brilliant run and finish into the bottom corner.
Verses Ecuador, 2012, World Cup qualifier
Running from well inside his own half, Messi exchanges a perfect one-two with Gonzalo Higuain on the edge of the Ecuador penalty area, before an emphatic first-time finish.
Verses Brazil, 2012, Friendly
Very probably his finest moment in an Albiceleste shirt. With the score at 3-3 and having already found the net twice, Messi picks up the ball by the touchline just inside Brazil’s half with Marcelo bearing down…
Verses Bosnia, 2014, World Cup
Bosnia provided a stern test in Argentina’s World Cup opener. An own goal had given the South Americans an early lead, but they were pushed throughout by the World Cup debutants. A signature Messi effort, of the type seen countless times for Barcelona, sealed the match.
Verses Iran, 2014, World Cup
With Argentina heading for a chastening 0-0 draw with rank outsiders Iran in their second group game, Messi picks up the ball on the edge of the area in the 92nd minute. No points for guessing what happens next.
Verses USA, 2016, Copa America
You could choose from any one of half a dozen free-kicks from the little magician. The audacity of Messi to go for the corner that keeper Brad Guzan is covering - and still leave him with absolutely no chance - makes this the pick.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments