Argentina Thrash Zambia 5-0 in Emotional Pre-World Cup Farewell
In a heartfelt send-off at La Bombonera on Tuesday evening, Captain Lionel Messi guided Argentina to a commanding 5-0 victory over Zambia. The match served as a final goodbye to their home supporters before the squad departs to defend their World Cup title in 2026.
Messi’s Final Home Stand
Earning his first start of the March international window—following a substitute appearance against Mauritania last Friday—the match was widely anticipated to be Messi’s last time playing for the national team on Argentine soil. The Inter Miami star wasted no time making an impact, setting up Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez just four minutes in to secure an early lead.
Right before the halftime whistle, Messi found the back of the net himself, doubling the scoreline with his 116th international goal and the 902nd of his illustrious career.
A Classy Gesture for Otamendi
The second half delivered a touching moment when La Albiceleste won a penalty. Messi handed the ball to veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi, ensuring he had a chance to score in his final home game before his post-World Cup retirement.
Otamendi successfully converted and later reflected on his tenure: “There is no greater satisfaction than wearing the national team jersey. I am very happy to have had this send-off at home. It has been a long journey, one filled with many joys and some sorrows… I leave with the feeling that I gave my all for the national team, always ready and willing to defend this jersey.”
The 5-0 shutout was ultimately sealed by a Zambian own goal in the 68th minute, followed by a final strike from Valentín Barco.
Bouncing Back
The dominant performance was exactly what Argentina needed following a sluggish 2-1 victory over Mauritania just days prior. Ahead of the Zambia friendly, head coach Lionel Scaloni had issued a stern warning: if the team’s performance didn’t improve, he was prepared to make drastic changes to the 26-man World Cup roster, which must be finalized by May 30.
Following Tuesday’s decisive win, a reassured Scaloni addressed the media: “The important thing is that what happened the other day doesn’t happen again. I think today it was shown that it was an accident and the team working together managed to play well.”
Tottenham defender Cristian Romero echoed the value of the team’s recent preparations, adding, “We were eager to play in the Finalissima, but it was important nonetheless to come together these past few days.”
