Lionel Messi starred again for his national team as Argentina dominated in Buenos Aires and recorded a 3-0 victory over Venezuela to extend their unbeaten run to 30 games in all international fixtures.
The seven-time Balon D’or winner scored in the 82nd minute to put shine on the result after goals from PSG teammate Angel Di Maria and Fiorentina’s Nicolas Gonzalez had put them in a comfortable position at La Bombonera stadium.
That was goal number seven for Messi in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers and his 81st international strike for Argentina in his illustrious career. He remains the highest scoring South American player in the history of the beautiful game.
Messi’s form for Argentina contrasts with his display at club level for Paris Saint Germain. The former Barcelona talisman has failed to impress in the French capital since making the high profile move from Camp Nou in the summer.
Although the 34 year old has successfully guided Argentina to the FIFA World Cup and will have one more chance to lift the coveted trophy in Qatar later this year. However, he needs to step up his game for his club side to restore his reputation which he painstakingly built during his time at Barcelona.
