Argentina forward Paulo Dybala has explained why he took Lionel Messi's number ten jersey during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The defending world champions cemented top spot in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers after thrashing Chile 3-0 on Friday evening.
Read: SHOCK: National Team Ends 176-Match Winless Run
Messi was not in action for the South American giants due to injury, but the famous number ten jersey was given to Dybala, who scored the third goal on the night.
"Being able to come back, being here with my team-mates, with our spectacular people who support me a lot and the truth is that well, it's special," Dybala told TyC Sports.
"I know it's not my shirt, we all know it's Leo's shirt but well, I tried to represent it in the best way, to give my best and I think I was able to do it."
"It was a decision made by the coaching staff, some of the boys said that it had to be me… I didn't know whether to accept it or not because, well, it is a responsibility."
It was also a special night for Angel Di Maria, who announced his retirement from international football as he bid farewell to the team in Buenos Aires.
