Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Lionel Messi made a historic return to the Argentine national team, breaking the all-time record for men’s international assists as the world champions demolished Puerto Rico 6-0 in a one-sided friendly match at Chase Stadium on Wednesday morning.
While the 38-year-old captain did not find the net himself, he was the architect of Argentina’s dominant attack, providing two crucial assists in a five-star performance. His performance was a highlight of a comprehensive victory that serves as a significant boost for Lionel Scaloni’s men as they prepare for their World Cup title defense.
Messi’s two assists in the match took his international tally to 60, surpassing the previous record held by USA’s Landon Donovan to become FIFA’s all-time leader in men’s international assists.
Argentina’s relentless pressure was evident from the start. Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring in the 14th minute, heading in a rebound after a Messi shot hit the woodwork. Just nine minutes later, Messi provided his first assist, setting up Gonzalo Montiel for a volley to make it 2-0. Mac Allister completed his brace in the 36th minute to give the world champions a comfortable 3-0 lead at halftime.
The dominance continued after the break with an own goal in the 64th minute extending the lead. Substitute Lautaro Martinez then came on to score a late brace, first in the 79th minute and again in the 84th minute, with the final goal being assisted by Messi to seal the emphatic 6-0 victory.
