Messi Scores Brace As Argentina Beat Nicaragua 5-1 (SPORTS)
Lionel Messi starred in Argentina’s 5-1 friendly win over Nicaragua as they continue their preparations for the Copa America.
The Barcelona forward netted two goals in the space of two first-half minutes, including an impressive solo strike that saw him dribble past several opposing players before finishing past the goalkeeper, Marca reports.
Inter’s Lautaro Martinez scored a double of his own during the second half, before Roberto Pereyra converted Rodrigo de Paul’s cross to make it 5-0.
Juan Barrera pulled a goal back for Nicaragua in stoppage time from the penalty spot, but it did nothing to dampen the mood in San Juan.
Messi and Argentina will face Colombia, Paraguay and Qatar in the group stages of the tournament held in Brazil.
