Lionel Messi was back to his scintillating best as he scored a hat-trick in a friendly game for Argentina against Guatemala which saw the Albiceleste victorious by four goals to nil.
Messi started the match from the beginning and was clearly unaffected by the negative press he received earlier this week. His magic was undoubtedly on show as his complete return to fitness moves closer.
Messi opened the scoring in the 15th minute after receiving a pass from Lavezzi. Messi dribbled at pace before unleashing a curling effort from distance which proved unstoppable.
Messi turned provider in the 35th minute when his devilish cross was effortlessly headed home by Fernandez.
Argentina got their third in the 40th minute after Messi's dazzling run from wide was halted by him being fouled inside the box. The referee didn't hesitate to award a penalty and Messi stepped up to side-foot home.
La Pulga's evening was complete when he scored his third goal just after half-time in the 48th minute. Argentina's build-up play was superb as the team chemistry looked impressive as Lavezzi once again supplied Messi who gobbled up the opportunity with another assured side-footed effort.
Messi was withdrawn in the 67th minute to rapturous applause as the world's best player produced a solid display of football which was well-appreciated by the Guatemalan crowd.
To watch highlights from the match, click here.
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