Argentina striker Lautaro Martinez has moved level with Diego Maradona in the nation’s all-time scoring charts after netting the winner against Peru on Wednesday.
The 27-year-old scored a left-footed volley after getting on the end of a cross from Lionel Messi.
Martinez’s 55th-minute goal was enough for a 1-0 victory in Buenos Aires and took Argentina another step closer to World Cup qualification.
This was Inter Milan forward Martinez’s 32nd goal in 70 caps for his country. He now sits joint-fifth in Argentina’s all-time goal-scoring charts, alongside footballing royalty.
Martinez is now level with the legendary Diego Maradona, who played 91 times for Argentina and lifted the World Cup in 1986.
Lautaro Martinez Level With Maradona But Well Behind Messi
Although Lautaro Martinez has now caught up with Diego Maradona, it seems unlikely he will ever become Argentina’s top scorer.
That honour belongs to Lionel Messi, with 112 goals and counting. With Messi still playing at 37 years old, he is likely to add to that tally before retiring.
Also in the top five all-time scorers for Argentina are Gabriel Batistuta, Sergio Aguero and Hernan Crespo.
Watch: Argentina Vs Peru Highlights
Despite dominating much of the game, it took until the 55th minute for Lionel Scaloni’s side to take the lead.
Lionel Messi’s floated cross dropped perfectly to Martinez, who smashed home a volley that left the Peru keeper with no chance.
They failed to extend their lead, however. Julian Alvarez hit the woodwork while Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister missed a header, meaning there were a few nerves towards the end.
But victory sees Argentina move five points clear at the top of the South American World Cup qualifying table, with six games remaining.
Messi, who now plays in the MLS with Inter Miami, has now tied with former USA forward Landon Donovan for the most international assists, with 58.
