Lionel Messi once again proved why he’s considered one of the greatest footballers of all time. In a commanding 6-0 triumph against Bolivia during the South American World Cup qualifiers, Messi scored three goals and provided two assists. The Monumental de Nuñez Stadium buzzed with excitement as Argentina secured their position at the top of the standings.
Messi’s Record-Breaking Night
Messi’s performance was nothing short of historic. He notched his 112th career goal, tying Cristiano Ronaldo’s record for the most hat tricks in international play. This achievement underscores Messi’s enduring excellence on the field, even as he contemplates the twilight of his illustrious career.
- Hat Tricks Tied with Ronaldo: 10 career hat tricks
- Total Career Goals: 112
- Assists in the Match: 2
The Barcelona star’s first goal emerged from a defensive lapse by Bolivia, allowing Messi to capitalize effortlessly. His assists for Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez further cemented his pivotal role in the team’s success. As the game progressed, Messi continued to influence the match, showcasing his unparalleled vision and skill.
Argentina’s Strategic Dominance
Argentina maintained their momentum throughout the game, demonstrating both offensive prowess and defensive solidity. The team’s ability to control possession and execute precise plays was evident from the start, leading to a series of well-coordinated goals.
- Goals Breakdown:
- First Half: Messi, Martínez
- Second Half: Almada, Messi, Messi
Thiago Almada’s goal in the 69th minute highlighted the team’s depth, while Messi’s late strikes ensured a comprehensive victory. The Monumental de Nuñez Stadium roared with each goal, reflecting the deep connection between the players and their passionate supporters.
Looking Ahead: Messi’s Future and Argentina’s Prospects
As Argentina leads the qualifiers with 22 points from 10 matches, questions arise about Messi’s future with the national team. The veteran forward expressed a desire to cherish every moment, hinting at the possibility of his final appearances on the international stage.
“I didn’t set any date or deadline about my future,” Messi remarked. “I’m just enjoying all this. I am more emotional than ever and taking all the love from the people because I know these can be my last games.”
Lionel Scaloni, Argentina’s manager, echoed Messi’s sentiment, emphasizing the importance of the superstar’s continued participation. “The only thing I ask of him is to keep playing as long as he can,” Scaloni stated. “It’s a joy to watch him on the soccer field. He never ceases to amaze us.”
Current Standings
| 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 two more rounds remaining in November, Argentina appears poised to secure their spot in the 2026 World Cup, the first to feature 48 teams competing across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
