Messi scores hattrick in Maxi Rodriguez testimonial match

Lionel Messi was the central figure in the testimonial match of his former team-mate in the national team Maxi Rodriguez.

Messi showed he is in top form on the eve of his 36th birthday, scoring a hat-trick as Argentina beat Newell Old Boys 4-2 in Rosario.

Messi was greeted by 42,000 spectators in his hometown, who wished him a “happy birthday”.

🎥 | Messi’s second goal at Maxi’s farewell match. Chip chip 🐐🤩⚽️ pic.twitter.com/EZa9uxa7S3

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The legend Gabriel Batistita also took part in the match.

Messi is taking some time off before joining his new team in MLS – Inter Miami, as his presentations is likely to be on July 16th alongside his old teammate in Barcelona – Sergio Busquets who also joins the Miami team as a free agent.