Argentina thrash Zambia 5–0! Five straight competitive wins, as Messi selflessly gives up a penalty and scores for the national team for the 21st consecutive year

On April 1 (Beijing time), Argentina national football team delivered a dominant 5–0 victory over Zambia in an international friendly, showcasing the strength of the reigning world champions. Argentina has now won both matches in this international window and extended their competitive winning streak to five games.

Just four days earlier, Argentina edged Mauritania 2–1. Facing Zambia—ranked 91st in the world—they wasted no time asserting control.

In the 4th minute, Lionel Messi dazzled with a dribble past multiple defenders before setting up Julián Álvarez, who calmly finished to open the scoring.

Messi thought he had scored in the 37th minute, but the goal was ruled out due to an offside by Nahuel Molina.

Seven minutes later, however, Messi got his goal—combining with Alexis Mac Allister in a slick one-two before finishing from a tight angle to make it 2–0.

This goal marked another milestone: Messi has now scored for Argentina in 21 consecutive years, surpassing Edin Džeko and ranking second all-time, behind only Cristiano Ronaldo. It was also his 902nd career goal.

In the second half, Thiago Almada won a penalty. Instead of taking it himself, Messi generously handed the opportunity to veteran Nicolás Otamendi, who converted in what was his farewell home appearance.

Almada continued to impress, forcing an own goal from Dominic Chanda in the 68th minute.

In stoppage time, Valentín Barco added the final touch, sealing a comprehensive victory.

Looking ahead, Argentina will enter the upcoming World Cup group stage alongside Algeria national football team, Austria national football team, and Jordan national football team. Their opening match is scheduled for June 17 against Algeria.