Messi notches 19-minute hat trick vs. Panama in Copa debut

Lionel Messi scored a second half hat trick during the Copa America Centenario, steering Argentina to a 5-0 victory over Panama.

Messi, playing for the first time in the tournament due to a back injury, notched his first goal when an errant clearing attempt ricocheted off Gonzalo Higuain's face, right into his path. The reigning FIFA Ballon d'Or winner was provided with a clear path to goal, took one touch, and calmly deposited the ball in the bottom corner of the net with a clinical strike.

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Next, Messi displayed his set piece brilliance with a stunning strike, bolstering Argentina's lead to 3-0. Panama goalkeeper Jaime Penedo made a valiant effort, but like many before him, was rendered helpless on the 78th minute laser.

Much to Panama's chagrin, Messi's party had just begun. The Argentine superstar completed his second half wizardry in the 87th minute, latching onto a perfect pass before sliding the ball past Penedo for his third goal in under 20 minutes.