WATCH: Lionel Messi Scores Record-Equalling Hat-Trick in Argentina’s 6-0 Victory Over Bolivia
This match marked Messi's second international appearance after he returned from an injury sustained during the Copa America in July. The Argentine superstar wasted no time opening the scoring for his team, finding the back of the net in the 19th minute. He capitalized on a defensive blunder by Bolivia's Marcelo Suarez, putting Argentina ahead early in the match. Following Messi's opening goal, his teammates also contributed to the scoreline. Lautaro Martínez, Julián Álvarez, and Thiago Almada each added to the tally, bringing the score to 4-0 in favor of Argentina. Messi then sealed his hat-trick with two quick goals in the 84th and 86th minutes, equaling Cristiano Ronaldo's record for international hat-tricks.
Lionel Messi, the renowned Argentine footballer, made headlines once again by achieving a remarkable milestone in his international career. He netted his 10th career hat-trick during Argentina's emphatic 6-0 win against Bolivia in the FIFA World Cup South American Qualifiers. This victory, held at Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, propelled Argentina to the top of the qualification standings.
This match marked Messi's second international appearance after he returned from an injury sustained during the Copa America in July. The Argentine superstar wasted no time opening the scoring for his team, finding the back of the net in the 19th minute. He capitalized on a defensive blunder by Bolivia's Marcelo Suarez, putting Argentina ahead early in the match.
Following Messi's opening goal, his teammates also contributed to the scoreline. Lautaro Martínez, Julián Álvarez, and Thiago Almada each added to the tally, bringing the score to 4-0 in favor of Argentina. Messi then sealed his hat-trick with two quick goals in the 84th and 86th minutes, equaling Cristiano Ronaldo's record for international hat-tricks.
After the match, Messi reflected on his return to the pitch, expressing his delight at playing in front of the home crowd after nearly a year. His hat-trick not only showcased his incredible talent but also raised his career goal count to an impressive 850 across club and international matches. With this performance, Messi also reached a significant milestone of 112 international goals.
"It's really nice to come here, to feel the affection of the people; it moves me how they shout my name. This drives me. I'm enjoying being happy where I am. Despite my age, when I'm here, I feel like a kid because I'm comfortable with this team. As long as I feel good and can keep performing the way I want, I'll keep enjoying it,” Messi stated, as quoted by India Today.
With this victory and Messi's remarkable performance, Argentina showcased their strength in the qualifiers, leaving fans excited about their prospects in the upcoming World Cup.
