Lionel Messi’s Top 10 Argentina Moments – Ranked from 10 to 1

September 8, 2025 Kris Isaksen

As Lionel Messi nears the end of his legendary international career, we revisit the 10 defining moments that shaped his journey with Argentina. From a teenage spark in 2006 to immortality in Qatar, here’s a countdown of his most unforgettable performances in the iconic Albiceleste shirt.

10. Dream Debut

In 2006, a teenage Messi made his World Cup debut against Serbia and Montenegro and lit up the stage in just 16 minutes. He scored once, assisted another, and earned praise from Diego Maradona, who famously called him "special."

9. Great Group Stage

At the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, Messi silenced critics with a string of stunning group stage goals. He netted against Bosnia, produced a dramatic late winner versus Iran, and added two more—including a brilliant free-kick—against Nigeria.

8. Landmark Appearance

Messi’s 1000th professional match came during the 2022 World Cup Round of 16 against Australia. He marked the occasion with a sublime goal and a masterclass performance that even his opponents called “surreal.”

7. Brilliance Against Brazil

In a 2012 friendly against Brazil, Messi delivered one of his most iconic international performances. He scored a hat-trick, including a spectacular solo goal that left the Brazil defense helpless and sealed a thrilling 4-3 win.

6. Running Rings Around Gvardiol

During the 2022 World Cup semi-final, Messi humiliated one of the tournament’s standout defenders, Josko Gvardiol. After scoring a penalty, he weaved past Gvardiol and set up Julian Alvarez for a key goal in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Croatia.

5. The Battle of Lusail

Against the Netherlands in Qatar 2022, Messi delivered one of the most outrageous assists of his career and showed raw emotion in a tense post-match exchange. His fiery side came out, and Argentinians loved him all the more for it.

4. Turning the 2022 Campaign Around

Following a shocking loss to Saudi Arabia, Argentina faced elimination in the group stage. Messi’s 64th-minute screamer against Mexico shifted the mood entirely, reigniting Argentina’s title campaign and proving his unmatched leadership.

3. 'The Gift from God'

In a do-or-die World Cup qualifier against Ecuador in 2017, Messi scored a sensational hat-trick to drag Argentina to Russia 2018. After briefly retiring from international football, his comeback couldn't have been more crucial.

2. The Win That Changed Everything

Argentina’s 1-0 win over Brazil in the 2021 Copa America final ended a 28-year trophy drought. Though Messi didn’t score, his nine goal involvements across the tournament earned him the Golden Ball and a tearful celebration that touched millions.

1. Destiny Fulfilled

Messi’s crowning moment came in the 2022 World Cup final, where he scored twice and led Argentina to glory in an epic showdown with France. With the Golden Ball in hand and the trophy raised, the GOAT status was sealed for good.