Hong Kong vs. Argentina: Score, Grades and Reaction from International Friendly

Hong Kong 0-7 Argentina

Nicolas Gaitan and Gonzalo Higuain both scored twice, but the Argentina star turn once more proved to be Lionel Messi in a seven-goal drubbing of Hong Kong.

Ever Banega had given Gerardo Martino's side an 18th-minute lead in the exhibition match, before a goal apiece from Higuain and Gaitan gave the South Americans a three-goal advantage at the interval.

The Napoli striker was again on target nine minutes into the second half, but the introduction of Messi as a 60th-minute substitution was greeted with a rapturous reception from the home crowd.

The Barcelona star responded with a masterclass with two goals, including a sublime 84th-minute strike, and an assist for Gaitan.

Argentina head coach Martino made several changes to his team, with Messi among those named on the bench for the game.

But there was little need for the Barcelona star in the opening stages as the South Americans dominated the game from the start.

And Javier Pastore forced a good save from the Hong Kong goalkeeper in the 13th minute before Argentina took the lead six minutes later.

Gaitan's strike was dropped by Yapp Hung Fai in the Hong Kong goal, and Sevilla star Banega was on hand to slot home the opener.

But it wasn't until three minutes before the interval that Martino's team doubled their lead. Higuain connected with a Leonel Vangioni cross to head home forcefully.

The visitors were not finished with their first-half scoring, however, and Gaitan made it 3-0 two minutes later when he cut inside and fired home with a powerful strike.

Hong Kong did have the ball in the net early in the second period, but it was adjudged to be offside. And the home side paid a further penalty shortly after.

In the 54th minute, Banega found Gaitain with a superb through ball, but the forward opted to set up Higuain and the Napoli striker slotted home his second of the game.

The moment the home fans had been waiting for arrived on the hour mark with the introduction of Messi for Pastore from the bench.

The Barcelona star made an immediate impression with a constant stream of clever balls for team-mates, but the crowd were soon on their feet for the star of the show.

After collecting a one-two from Benega, Messi chased into the Hong Kong penalty area and lifted the ball over Yapp to make it 5-0.

Messi then turned provider six minutes later when he kept a pass in play on the by-line before finding Gaitan, who slotted home the simple opportunity.

The appearance of Manchester United winger Angel Di Maria as a substitute also drew scenes of ecstasy among the local fans in the 72nd minute.

What the Hong Kong crowd were really hoping for was a moment of Messi magic. Six minutes before the end, they got it.

Higuain found the Barcelona star on the edge of the penalty area with a great pass. Messi danced beyond three Hong Kong defenders and across the area where he found space to send the ball beyond the goalkeeper.

Selected player ratings

Gonzalo Higuain: A

The striker might not be having a fruitful season with Napoli, but he was a persistent threat for Argentina in this friendly.

Ever Benega: A+

Always looking for an opportunity to create chances for Martino's team. He displayed clever passing and movement throughout.

Lionel Messi: A

So good he doesn't even need a full 90 minutes to prove his worth. Played only 30 minutes of the game, but his impact was immense.

What's ahead

Argentina's next match will be in England when they line up against Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo at Old Trafford on Nov. 18.

Hong Kong will be facing North Korea in their next game on Nov. 12 to begin a schedule of three games in six days, including matches against Chinese Taipei and Guam.

Post-match reaction

"

Messi has scored his first brace ever as a sub for ARG #fcblive [via mrchip]

— barcastuff (@barcastuff) October 14, 2014"

"

Messi in the year 2014 for club and country: 51 games, 41 goals, 19 assists #fcblive [via @MessiStats]

— barcastuff (@barcastuff) October 14, 2014"