The Argentina veteran Mascherano confirmed he would retire from internationals after the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

A Lionel Messi hat-trick led Coach Jorge Sampaoli’s men to a 3-1 win over Ecuador on Tuesday, securing a place at the showpiece event.

Mascherano, who has won 139 caps – just four shy of the nation’s all-time record held by Javier Zanetti.

Mascherano has been used in midfield and defense for Argentina, who struggled in qualifying and were in danger of missing the world cup before Messi’s heroics.

The former Liverpool midfielder said he hoped to be in Russia, but added it was a decision for coach Sampaoli.