The second Argentina vs. Honduras friendly match since 2016 swarmed with fans at Hard Rock Stadium on Sept. 23. More than 64,000 fans made up the audience, the majority of them supporting midfielder Lionel Messi, regardless of their patria (nationality). 

With a strong start in the first half of the game, Argentina had most of the ball possession and seemed to be in no hurry as they passed the ball and pushed Honduras back into defense. Sixteen minutes into the game, Argentina left wing Alejandro “El Papu” Gomez made the perfect assist to center forward Lautaro Martinez, changing the scoreboard to 1-0 and setting the stage for Argentina’s win. 

However, the first half of the game was not over yet. In minute 40, Honduras central midfielder Deybi Flores slammed into Messi leaving him face-down on the field. Two minutes were added to the end of the half and a penalty was given to Argentina. Fans held their breath and clung to each other as Messi got ready for the penalty kick. Minute 45 became a highlight of the game as Messi scored and fans screamed “GOL!” Argentina fans were confident and Honduras fans nervous as the second half approached. 

Starting off the second half, Honduras refused to lose without a fight, mounting two threatening attacks. Argentina fans were not worried however, for some, their win was inevitable. In minute 69, Messi’s shot went over the goalkeeper’s head and Honduras fans’ worst fears were confirmed as the scoreboard changed to 3-0. Messi fans went wild, chanting Messi’s name and bowing down to him.

At full time the scoreboard read 3-0 and Argentina fans went home victorious.