Lionel Messi delivered a stunning performance for Argentina on Tuesday, scoring three goals in a commanding 6-0 win against Bolivia during a 2026 World Cup qualifier.
This hat-trick marked the 37-year-old’s 10th for the national team, tying him with Cristiano Ronaldo for the most international hat-tricks in men’s soccer history.
Following the match at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, Messi expressed his joy at the crowd’s support. “It’s wonderful to be here and feel the warmth of the fans.
Their cheers really touch me,” he said. He added, “Despite my age, I feel like a kid when I’m with this team. As long as I’m feeling good, I’ll keep enjoying it.”
Messi not only found the back of the net three times but also provided two assists, helping solidify Argentina’s status as reigning world champions.
He opened the scoring in the 19th minute after capitalizing on a defensive error. Just before halftime, he assisted Lautaro Martínez for the second goal and made it 3-0 with a perfectly executed pass to Julián Álvarez in the 43rd minute.
The second half saw Argentina continue to dominate, with Thiago Almada scoring the fourth goal in the 69th minute.
Messi then added two more goals, the first being a classic strike where he evaded a defender to score, followed by a left-footed shot into the bottom corner.
This match was only Messi’s second appearance since July due to an ankle injury. Despite a recent draw with Venezuela and a loss to Colombia, Argentina leads the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying standings with 22 points. The team’s next qualifier is against Paraguay on November 14.