Debut for Argentina U20 Team

Lionel Messi, a dual Argentine-Spanish national, made his debut for the Argentina U20 team in a match against Paraguay. This debut marked the beginning of his international career at the youth level. Following his debut, Messi was selected to participate in the 2005 South American U-20 Championship. During this tournament, the Argentina U20 team finished in third place, showcasing the potential of its young players. Messi's performance in the tournament was notable, as he emerged as a key player, contributing significantly to the team's overall success. His early involvement with the U20 team laid the groundwork for his future achievements in international football, as he would go on to represent Argentina at various levels, including the senior national team. Messi's journey from the U20 team to becoming one of the most recognized footballers globally highlights the importance of youth development in sports, particularly in nurturing talent for national representation.