Lionel Messi reaches career milestone in Argentina's homecoming

Lionel Messi scored his 800th career goal in Argentina's 2-0 friendly win over Panama on Thursday night.

In their first game since beating France on penalties to win the 2022 World Cup, Argentina returned home for a friendly meeting with Panama.

Supporters packed into River Plate's Estadio Monumental to witness Argentina's homecoming, and the parade of the World Cup trophy which took place after the contest.

Messi went close to opening the scoring in the first half with a free kick that struck the crossbar, ensuring that the contest remain goalless at half time.

In the 78th minute, the 35-year-old saw another free kick hit the woodwork, but the subsequent rebound eventually broke to Thiago Almada, who thumped home his first international goal.

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Messi's persistence finally paid off in the 89th minute when he produced a trademark curling free kick into the top corner.

The stunning effort brought up a significant milestone for Messi, who has now scored 800 career goals for club and country.

Argentina's all-time record scorer has found the net 99 times for his country, including seven goals in their 2022 World Cup triumph.

Messi racked up 672 of his 800 goals in the colours of Barcelona, while he has also found the net on 29 occasions for Paris Saint-Germain.

The World Cup winner will be looking to reach 100 international goals on Sunday night when Argentina face Curacao in another friendly encounter.