Lionel Messi Matches Cristiano Ronaldo's Record with Hat-Trick for Argentina in World Cup Qualifying 6-0 victory over Bolivia

Lionel Messi Matches Cristiano Ronaldo's Record

Lionel Messi delivered another standout performance for Argentina, netting three goals and providing two assists in a dominant 6-0 victory over Bolivia during South American World Cup qualifying on Tuesday night.

Following the match, held at the Monumental de Nuñez Stadium in front of an enthusiastic crowd, the 2022 World Cup champion expressed his desire to cherish every moment with the national team, recognizing that his playing days may be numbered. "It’s incredibly special to play here and feel the affection from the Argentina fans," Messi remarked. "Hearing them shout my name brings out so much emotion in me. We all relish this connection with the fans and love playing at home."

When questioned about his future and the possibility of defending Argentina’s title at the 2026 World Cup, Messi was candid. "I haven't set any deadlines regarding my future," he stated. "I’m just enjoying the moment. I'm feeling more emotional than ever and soaking up all the love from the people, as I know these could be my last games."

After missing two rounds of the competition in September due to a right ankle injury, Messi played the entire match and made history in the process. This game marked the first time he recorded multiple goals and assists in a single international match, and his hat trick brought his total to 112 international goals. It also tied him with Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo for the most career hat tricks, with both players reaching double digits.

Messi opened the scoring after capitalizing on a mistake by a Bolivian defender, who misplayed a pass, allowing the 37-year-old to sprint towards the goal and finish unchallenged against goalkeeper Billy Viscarra. He assisted Lautaro Martínez's goal in the 42nd minute and provided another decisive pass in added time for a goal by Julián Álvarez.

While Argentina slowed their pace in the second half, they added another goal through Thiago Almada in the 69th minute, with the striker converting from close range after a low cross from Nahuel Molina.

Messi sealed the game with two brilliant finishes from the edge of the box in the 84th and 86th minutes, his joy evident as he celebrated with his teammates. "It’s a joy to be present and savor this moment," he said. "Being surrounded by younger teammates, especially at my age, makes me feel young again. I find myself doing playful things because I feel so comfortable. As long as I can keep contributing to the team, I plan to enjoy my time with the national squad."

Argentina's manager, Lionel Scaloni, echoed Messi's sentiments, expressing his wish for the superstar to continue playing for as long as possible. "All I ask is for him to keep playing as long as he can," Scaloni said. "Watching him on the field is a delight. He never fails to amaze us."

With this win, Argentina maintained its position at the top of the qualifying table, securing 22 points from 10 matches, three points ahead of second-place Colombia, which defeated Chile 4-0. Uruguay sits in third place with 16 points after a goalless draw with Ecuador.

The next rounds of South American World Cup qualifying are scheduled for November. The 2026 World Cup will be the first expanded tournament featuring 48 teams, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, competing for the prestigious trophy.

Lionel Messi Matches Cristiano Ronaldo's Record with Hat-Trick for Argentina in World Cup Qualifying