Messi scores after just 80 seconds, captivating fans in Beijing.

Chinese fans have been almost ecstatic in recent days with the arrival of the Argentinian national team in the capital of the world's most populous country. They are passionately "hunting" for the biggest star of the world champion team, captain Lionel Messi, along with a burning desire to see this superstar "in the flesh" on the streets and on the football field.

The Messi craze among Chinese girls and boys.

Throughout Beijing, there's only one jersey with the number 10.

Numerous scams, such as a "Dinner and Photo with Lionel Messi" service costing over $40,000, or fake VIP tickets to watch Messi and his teammates play for thousands of dollars, appeared before the match between Argentina and Australia at the "Bird's Nest" stadium.

Tickets on the black market were selling for as much as $671, but even then, there weren't many left to sell, and the stadium was practically full hours before kick-off.

A cult of personality, a love for heroes.

The admiration of Chinese fans for superstar Lionel Messi was truly deserved, as just 80 seconds into the match, the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner unleashed a curling shot from outside the penalty area, beating Australian goalkeeper Matt Ryan to open the scoring.

This was the fastest goal of Lionel Messi's career among the more than 100 goals he has scored for the Argentina national team, along with countless other goals at club level.

Messi scored the fastest goal of his career.

After this goal, which could be considered a masterpiece, Messi had two more scoring opportunities but failed to capitalize on either. However, the superstar's impressive performance, with his dedicated attitude and full-on display on the field, left Chinese fans in awe of his skill.

Messi's performance left fans stunned.

The Australian team refused to be outdone after conceding a goal and responded fiercely, nearly equalizing in the first half if not for the brilliance of goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and the help of the crossbar and post of the Argentinian goal.

Messi captivated everyone from the fans in the stands to his Australian opponents on the pitch.

In the second half, Messi once again combined on the left wing with Rodrigo de Paul, and Argentina's number 7 delivered a beautiful cross for German Pezzella to head the ball into the net against Australia in the 68th minute. Argentina won 2-0 against Australia and will be in Jakarta in a few days to play a friendly match against Indonesia.

Fans are fascinated by every image and item related to Messi.

A die-hard fan demands to be Messi's teammate on the field.

Unfortunately, Southeast Asian fans will not get to see Messi showcase his skills firsthand as he has to return to the US to complete some paperwork with his new club, Inter Miami.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/the-thao/messi-ghi-ban-sau-80-giay-don-tim-nguoi-ham-mo-bac-kinh-2023061608103219.htm