Messi marked a sensational return to the national side scoring the only goal in the world cup qualifier as a 10-men Argentina scraped past Uruguay 1-0 on Thursday in Mendoza. The Catalan star broke a million hearts when he said “My time with the national side is over” on suffering 3 successive defeats in finals of major tournaments in as many years. Many believed it to be an emotional outburst caused by the loss of yet another final. However, he announced his comeback to the international arena last month, on pursuance from the newly appointed Argentina coach and many others. A decision many would have wanted or probably expected of the champion player.

Just minutes before the first half, the Argentine with his skillful touches and superior control over the ball made room and shot towards the goal. The ball ended in the back of the net with a slight help of a deflection from the Uruguay defender. The whole of the 40 thousand fans rose in awe to see their marquee man do it yet again for his national team.

Messi scored his 56th goal for Argentina which awarded Edgardo Bauza a winning start to his managerial career with La Albiceleste, definitely bringing back some of the attacker’s lost confidence as well.

Although the start of the second half saw the sending off of Dybala, Uruguay couldn’t create many chances which would trouble Sergio Romero. The match ended with Argentina having the last laugh and with the win moved them to the top of the table in the CONMEBOL qualifying standings.