Lionel Messi’s hat trick propelled Argentina to a commanding 6-0 victory over Bolivia in their CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying match. The 37-year-old maestro demonstrated his timeless talent, contributing three goals, two assists, and a series of creative plays that left fans in awe.
Argentina 🇦🇷 Dominates with Messi’s 𝐇𝐀𝐓-𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐂𝐊 𝐌𝐀𝐆𝐈𝐂 🥵#ARGBOL #WCQ2026 pic.twitter.com/3Qjlip4nzP
— Match Spoots (@matchspoots) October 16, 2024
First Half Dominance
Argentina’s dominance was evident from the start. Messi opened the scoring in the 19th minute. Bolivian defender Marcelo Suarez lost possession to Lautaro Martinez, who set up Messi for a clinical finish into the bottom corner. The Monumental Stadium erupted in the 43rd minute when Julian Alvarez delivered a perfect pass to Messi, who selflessly assisted Martinez for the second goal.
Messi’s Magic Continues
Just before halftime, Alvarez capitalized on a quick free kick, with Messi providing a deft chip over the defense, allowing Alvarez to score. After the break, although Nicolas Otamendi’s header was disallowed for offside, Argentina’s momentum continued. Thiago Almada scored the fourth goal following a precise pull-back from Nahuel Molina.
A Classic Messi Performance
Messi’s brilliance was on full display in the 84th minute. The Inter Miami star dribbled centrally, switching feet before slotting the ball into the bottom corner for his second goal. Moments later, Messi completed his hat trick with a clever one-two with substitute Nico Paz, sealing the 6-0 triumph.
Argentina’s Commanding Lead
With this victory, Argentina sits atop the 10-team table with 22 points from ten games, three points ahead of second-place Colombia. Messi’s hat trick not only secured the win but also reinforced Argentina’s position as a formidable force in the World Cup qualifiers.
