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Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick as Barcelona thumped Dundee United of Scotland 5-1 in a pre-season friendly match
Lionel Messi, who is one of the most feared strikers in the world at the moment, hit a magnificent hat-trick as Barcelona thrashed Dundee United 5-1 in a friendly match on Saturday. Messi Scores Hat-trickThe Argentine international hit a magnificent hat-trick in a friendly match that was completely dominated by his side Barcelona as they prepare for a vital UEFA Champions League qualifier next month. Messi stole the show with three brilliant goals, while Thierry Henry and Samuel Eto'o scored Barcelona's other two goals in a convincing high-scoring victory. In the 27th minute Messi scored his first goal of the match. The Argentine bursted into the area with determination and beat the Dundee goalkeeper with a good finish. His second goal came in the 75th minute, when he met a clever flick from Cameroonian striker Samuel Eto'o with a sensational volley that went inside the left post. Three minutes later Messi completed his hat-trick and the 5-1 romp, with another sensational finish. Messi ran onto a rebound in the area and poked the ball into the back of the net with class. Barcelona have been in brilliant form in the pre-season matches they have played so far, and promise to deliver the goods this season. Their main priority is to win a major title, whether that be the UEFA Champions League or the La Liga championship. Messi's Club Versus Country Row ContinuesAfter his brilliant performance against Dundee there's no wonder Barcelona have refused to let him participate in the Olympic Games with Argentina without a fight. The Argentine camp have already commenced training for the Beijing Olympic Games, but Messi has yet to join the squad, as Barcelona want to keep him for a vital UEFA Champions League qualifier later next month. Messi has already told Barcelona that he wishes to take part in the competition with the Argentine national team, however, it is not up to him and his club will have the final say if FIFA (soccer's world governing body) doesn't interfere. FIFA president Sepp Blatter is in favour of Messi taking part in the competition, because he will add huge prestige to events on the soccer field. Messi, Riquelme, Aguero To Lead Argentina In OlympicsWith the likes of Juan Roman Riquelme and Sergio Aguero, Argentina already have two of the most gifted attacking players in the competition in their squad, while Messi's addition would be the icing on the cake. It is unknown whether Messi will finally join the Argentine squad, and according to reports a final decision will be made by next Tuesday. Argentina will face Australia, Serbia and the Ivory Coast in the first round of the competition, that kicks-off in early August.
The copyright of the article Lionel Messi Barcelona in International Soccer is owned by Gregory Sica. Permission to republish Lionel Messi Barcelona in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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