In a spectacular display of skill, Lionel Messi led Argentina to a decisive 6-0 victory over Bolivia in a South American World Cup qualifier match. The game, held at the buzzing Monumental de Nuñez Stadium, saw Messi score a hat-trick and provide two assists, cementing Argentina’s top position in the standings and giving fans a night to remember.
A Historic Performance from the Legend
Lionel Messi delivered a performance that will be remembered for years. His three goals in the match were not just crucial for the win but also marked a significant personal milestone. With this hat-trick, Messi tied Cristiano Ronaldo for the most hat-tricks in the history of men’s international football.
This incredible achievement pushed his total international goal count to 112. Messi’s performance was a masterclass in attacking football, showcasing his enduring talent and importance to the national team.
His key contributions in the match included:
- Goals Scored: 3
- Assists Provided: 2
- Hat Tricks Tied with Ronaldo: 10
The Barcelona star’s influence was felt throughout the game, from capitalizing on defensive errors to setting up his teammates for success.
How the Goals Unfolded
Argentina’s dominance was clear from the first whistle. Messi opened the scoring by taking advantage of a mistake by the Bolivian defense. He then provided a perfect assist for Lautaro Martínez to double the lead before halftime.
The team carried their momentum into the second half. Thiago Almada added a third goal in the 69th minute, showcasing the depth of Argentina’s squad. However, the night belonged to Messi, who scored two more goals late in the game to complete his hat-trick and seal the 6-0 rout. The crowd at the Monumental de Nuñez Stadium erupted with every goal, celebrating a truly comprehensive victory.
Argentina’s Tactical Superiority
Beyond Messi’s individual brilliance, Argentina played as a cohesive and powerful unit. The team controlled the game by maintaining possession and executing sharp, precise plays. Their strategy effectively dismantled Bolivia’s defense, leading to a series of well-constructed goals.
The defense also remained solid, preventing Bolivia from creating any significant scoring opportunities. This balanced approach of a potent offense and a sturdy defense demonstrates why Argentina is currently leading the qualifiers.
Current Standings and the Road to 2026
With this victory, Argentina strengthens its lead in the South American qualifiers with 22 points from 10 matches. The team is in a strong position to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
The current standings are as follows:
| Team | Points | Position |
|---|---|---|
| Argentina | 22 | 1st |
| Colombia | 19 | 2nd |
| Uruguay | 16 | 3rd |
| Brazil | 16 | 4th |
| Paraguay | 13 | 5th |
| Ecuador | 13 | 6th |
| Bolivia | 10 | 7th |
With only two rounds left, Argentina’s path to the World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, looks increasingly secure.
Uncertainty Looms over Messi’s Future
Despite the celebratory atmosphere, questions about Messi’s future with the national team remain. The veteran forward has been open about enjoying the present moment, hinting that his time on the international stage may be coming to an end. “I’m just enjoying all this,” Messi said. “I know these can be my last games.”
Argentina’s manager, Lionel Scaloni, expressed his hope that the superstar will continue to play for as long as possible. “It’s a joy to watch him on the soccer field,” Scaloni commented. “He never ceases to amaze us.” For now, fans will cherish every opportunity to see the legend in action.
