Lionel Messi: The Barcelona forward's best goals for Argentina as he retires from international football

A selection of the Argentine genius' finest strikes for his country

Messi broke Gabriel Batistuta's goals record for Argentina during the 2016 Copa America (Getty)

At the age of just 29, Lionel Messi has announced his international retirement following Argentina’s Copa America final defeat to Chile. It may yet be a decision he will reverse, and anyone that enjoys football will hope to see him at the World Cup in Russia in two years.

In the meantime, here are some of the finest of his 55 goals in an Argentina shirt.

Verses Mexico, 2007, Copa America

One his earliest, and one of his best. A 20 year old Messi receives the ball at the corner of the box. Two touches later, it’s arcing over the head of the flailing Mexican keeper.

Verses Brazil, 2010, Friendly

Similar to his Champions League semi-final wonder goal against Real Madrid, Messi settled this Doha friendly in the 92nd minute, with a brilliant run and finish into the bottom corner.

Verses Ecuador, 2012, World Cup qualifier

Running from well inside his own half, Messi exchanges a perfect one-two with Gonzalo Higuain on the edge of the Ecuador penalty area, before an emphatic first-time finish.

Verses Brazil, 2012, Friendly

Very probably his finest moment in an Albiceleste shirt. With the score at 3-3 and having already found the net twice, Messi picks up the ball by the touchline just inside Brazil’s half with Marcelo bearing down…

Verses Bosnia, 2014, World Cup

Bosnia provided a stern test in Argentina’s World Cup opener. An own goal had given the South Americans an early lead, but they were pushed throughout by the World Cup debutants. A signature Messi effort, of the type seen countless times for Barcelona, sealed the match.

Verses Iran, 2014, World Cup

With Argentina heading for a chastening 0-0 draw with rank outsiders Iran in their second group game, Messi picks up the ball on the edge of the area in the 92nd minute. No points for guessing what happens next.

Verses USA, 2016, Copa America

You could choose from any one of half a dozen free-kicks from the little magician. The audacity of Messi to go for the corner that keeper Brad Guzan is covering - and still leave him with absolutely no chance - makes this the pick.