Watch: Lionel Messi scores hat-trick on his return to Rosario in Argentina vs Newell’s Old Boys

Lionel Messi celebrated his birthday in style by scoring a hat-trick for Argentina against his boyhood club Newell’s Old Boys on Saturday. Messi returned to Rosario thanks to testimonials from former international teammate Maxi Rodríguez alongside players such as Angel Di Maria.

In his hat-trick, Messi also scored a stunning free-kick in Rosario’s emotional return against Newell’s. The likes of Sergio Aguero and Lionel Scaloni were also part of the testimonial ceremony.

Read: India lost the chance to host Lionel Messi and world champion Argentina, know why

Watch the video of his goal here:

Lionel Messi scored the chip goal!pic.twitter.com/3Xw97bsuju

— Roy Nemer (@RoyNemer) 24 June 2023

Lionel Messi Free Kick Goal!pic.twitter.com/BTEHHNaloy— Roy Nemer (@RoyNemer) 24 June 2023

Lionel Messi is back in his hometown of Rosario and the entire stadium sings Happy Birthday.

@SC_ESPN pic.twitter.com/a55hx6CF3o— CBS Sports Golazo (@CBSSportsGolazo) 24 June 2023

Why is Rosario so special to Messi?

Messi grew up in Rosario and played in Newell’s academy ranks as a child before moving to Barcelona. He scored his first goal at the Estadio Marcelo Bielsa after only four minutes of play. Messi was linked with a return to Newell’s earlier this year but is now set to join MLS club Inter Miami after his contract at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) expires on June 30.

Messi has scored over 15 goals for Argentina this season as well as winning the World Cup title. He was adjudged the best player in the mega event held in Qatar last year. He is set to join MLS side Inter Miami soon.

After the match, Messi spoke about leading Argentina to 2022 FIFA World Cup glory in Qatar in December. Speaking to the media, he said, “As I said at the time: It was our turn to be the world champion, but behind us were millions of impressive players who did many great things with the national team, beyond the fact that they didn’t.” Did.” Raise a cup.”

Speaking about his retirement plans, he said, “Although what we did is something special (winning the World Cup) and unique, every footballer’s dream… It’s more about what you did than what you do now.” are thinking When it is my turn to leave football, I will remember and enjoy all the things I have achieved even more.”