Argentine captain Lionel Messi finally scored his 800th career goal on Thursday with a free-kick that went into the top-right corner of the goal. His 89th-minute goal doubled Argentina's lead over Pana, ensuring a 2-0 victory for the side in an international friendly in front of an 80,000-strong crowd at ‘El Monumental’. Messi became the second footballer to reach 800 goals after Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal, who has 830 career goals to his name.
Lionel Messi, the captain of Argentina, on Thursday successfully scored his 800th career goal during an international friendly match against Pana. The goal, which was achieved through an incredulous free-kick, found its way into the top-right corner of the goal during the 89th minute of play. With this goal, Messi secured a 2-0 victory for Argentina in front of an impressive crowd of 80,000 spectators at ‘El Monumental’. He joins the ranks of Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal, who currently holds the record for the most career goals, with 830 goals to his name.
Following the match, the Argentina Football Association organized a ceremony to commemorate the team's victory in the FIFA World Cup, which marked the country's third championship and their first in 36 years.
During the post-match ceremony, Lionel Messi expressed his excitement, saying, "I have always dreamed of this moment, celebrating with you in my home country of Argentina, lifting the greatest trophy of all, the World Cup." He also encouraged the team to continue their hard work and enjoy the victory, as they have been waiting for a long time to win the prestigious tournament again. "Let's savor this moment and revel in the glory of our third star," Messi added.
