After scoring a brilliant hat-trick for his country the Argentine legend, Lionel Messi said he is still driven by the passion for the game. 

The legend stated -  “It’s really nice to come here, to feel the affection of the people, it moves me how they shout my name”.

Lionel Messi, in just his second appearance for the national team since recovering from an injury at the Copa America in July, Messi took advantage of a defensive error by Marcelo Suarez to net the opening goal in the 19th minute, much to the delight of the passionate home fans at Monumental Stadium.

While talking regarding his future in international football, he stated - “I haven’t set any date or deadline regarding my future, I just want to enjoy all of this. It moves me more than ever to be here and feel the love of the people because I know these could be my last matches.” 

The 2022 FIFA champion explained - “This drives me. Enjoying being happy where I am. Despite my age, when I’m here, I feel like a kid because I’m comfortable with this team. As long as I feel good and can keep performing the way I want, we’ll keep enjoying it,”. 

The match saw Messi score his first hat-trick with multiple assists for Argentina, his 10th international hat-trick, tying him with Cristiano Ronaldo. Argentina now leads the standings with 22 points, bouncing back after a loss to Colombia and a draw with Venezuela.