Lionel Messi equals Gabriel Batistuta Argentina all-time record

Lionel Messi has equalled the all-time goalscoring record for Argentina after netting in Saturday’s Copa America Centenario quarter-final against Venezuela.

The 28-year-old scored his 54th goal for the Albiceleste on the way to a 4-1 win and a place in the tournament’s semi-finals, putting him level with Gabriel Batistuta.

Messi told reporters after the game: “I’m happy for what it means and it’s nice to be next to Batigol, but for me the most important thing is the result.”

The Barcelona forward also created goals for Gonzalo Higuain, who scored twice, and Erik Lamela to set up a last-four meeting with hosts the United States.