Lionel Messi delivered a stunning performance for Argentina, leading his team to a resounding 6-0 victory over Bolivia in the 10th round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The Inter Miami star showcased his exceptional skill by scoring three goals and providing two assists, solidifying Argentina’s position at the top of the CONMEBOL standings.
A Stellar First Half
Messi opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a precise shot using his left foot, finishing off a well-placed pass from Lautaro Martinez. Just before halftime, he returned the favor by assisting Martinez, who netted his own goal in the 43rd minute. Julian Alvarez added a third goal just before the break, benefiting from another assist by Messi, as Argentina went into halftime with a commanding 3-0 lead.
Dominance Continues After the Break
Despite what seemed like a slower pace at the beginning of the second half, the reigning world champions quickly proved their dominance. In the 69th minute, Thiago Almada scored from a pass by Nahuel Molina, extending Argentina’s lead. However, Messi wasn’t done yet; he struck again in the 84th minute, scoring his second goal with a right-footed shot after a setup from Exequiel Palacios.
Completing the Hat-Trick
Messi capped off his magnificent evening in the 86th minute, converting a pass from Nico Paz into his third goal, again using his left foot. With this hat-trick, Messi not only highlighted his importance to the team but also helped Argentina secure the top spot in the CONMEBOL qualifiers with 22 points. Currently, Argentina is three points ahead of Colombia, who recently triumphed over Chile with a score of 4-0.
Messi’s dazzling display continues to reaffirm his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time, captivating fans and leaving a lasting mark on this World Cup qualifying campaign.
