Lionel Messi netted his 800th career goal, powering Argentina to a 2-0 win against Panama in a friendly game at Buenos Aires on Thursday night. 

Messi had a brilliant outing with his team mates in a game regarded a reunion for the team after their World Cup victory in Qatar last December.

Shouts of joy rent the air as jubilant Argentina fans, still savouring the World Cup victory, honoured their heroes led by Messi with a standing ovation.

Thiago Almada opened scoring the Argentine just 11 minutes into the game. 

Prior to Thursday’s match, Messi had 799 career goals to his credit.

The Paris Saint Germain star struck the goal post twice with free kicks before burying the third into Jose Carlos Guerra’s net in the 89th minute.

Overwhelmed by the grand reception from home fans, Messi appreciated Argentines for their massive support after the game.

“I want to thank you all for the love and recognition that you have been receiving, not only after the World Cup but also for the Copa America,” Messi said. “We said that we were going to give it all for this trophy.”

With Thursday’s goal, Messi, 35, has now scored 99 goals for his national side, just one away from hitting the 100 goal mark for the Albiceleste.

Messi’s 800th goal came few months after he was named Best FIFA Men’s Player having played crucial role in Argentina’s World Cup Victory in Qatar.