Thiago Almada continues whirlwind start to season as Atlanta United star scores first Argentina goal

Thiago Almada’s breakneck form for the club came to the international break on Thursday when he opened the scoring for Argentina in a celebratory 2-0 win against Panama in Buenos Aires.

The match was Argentina’s first at home since their World Cup triumph in Qatar, with Lionel Scaloni fielding the same line-up that began the final against France.

But Almada was able to make his mark after going into halftime, scoring a Lionel Messi free kick after it hit the crossbar in the 78th minute.

The goal was the first for the 21-year-old at international level and, unsurprisingly, he looked delighted as his teammates hugged him.

Messi was able to score his goal 11 minutes later, this time converting a free kick from slightly closer and secured a 2-0 victory for his team.

It was a special night for him and his teammates as thousands packed the Estadio Monumental, River Plate’s home, with fans waving flags and beating drums as they celebrated the team’s World Cup victory.

Afterwards, the players were given replica trophies to pose for and welcomed their loved ones onto the pitch.

While the night was meant to celebrate Argentina’s achievement in Qatar, however, it was also another milestone for Almada, who has dominated in MLS this season.

The attacking midfielder already has four goals and four assists in as many games, and helped Atlanta United to a thrilling week one victory against the San Jose Earthquakes with two stoppage-time goals.

He was named the league’s Player of the Week for those efforts.

Almada added two more goals last weekend, including an outrageous curling free kick, as his team posted a 5-1 win against the Portland Timbers.

Acquired by Atlanta for a league record $16 million, the Argentine is not expected to remain in MLS, and could yet set another transfer record in his departure.