BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Lionel Messi rolled back the years with a vintage performance on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, netting a stunning hat-trick in Argentina’s 6-0 demolition of Bolivia during a 2026 World Cup qualifier.
The 37-year-old maestro’s three goals not only helped Argentina secure a commanding win but also brought him level with Cristiano Ronaldo’s record of 10 international hat-tricks in men’s soccer.
The Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires was electric as Messi, who was returning from an ankle injury, orchestrated the match with a dazzling display.
Along with his three goals, the Inter Miami forward provided two assists, demonstrating his timeless ability to control games.
“It’s really nice to come here, to feel the affection of the people,” Messi said after the match.
“It moves me how they shout my name. This drives me. 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.”
Argentina’s Dominance
The reigning world champions wasted no time asserting dominance. Messi opened the scoring after 19 minutes, capitalizing on a Bolivian defensive error.
The crowd erupted as their captain set the tone for what would become a lopsided contest.
Before halftime, Messi provided an assist for Lautaro Martínez, who tapped in Argentina’s second goal after being teed up by Messi in the 43rd minute.
Minutes later, Messi’s quick free-kick found Julián Álvarez, who controlled the ball and chipped it over the Bolivian goalkeeper, giving Argentina a 3-0 lead at the break.
The second half saw more of the same as Argentina continued to overwhelm Bolivia.
Thiago Almada finished off a flowing move to make it 4-0 in the 69th minute, but the evening belonged to Messi, who whipped the home crowd into a frenzy with two more late goals.
Messi’s Magic Continues
Messi’s first of his two second-half goals was classic Messi—a darting run at the Bolivian defense before slipping a low shot under the goalkeeper.
It was a moment reminiscent of his prime years at Barcelona.
Moments later, he added his third of the night, curling a beautiful left-footed shot into the bottom corner from the edge of the box, sealing Argentina’s dominant 6-0 win.
With a massive grin on his face, Messi soaked in the adoration from the home fans, who chanted his name in unison.
The victory leaves Argentina sitting comfortably atop the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying table with 22 points.
Looking Ahead
After a draw against Venezuela last week and a loss to Colombia in September, Argentina’s emphatic win over Bolivia puts them back on track.
The team will next face Paraguay in their World Cup qualifier on November 14.
With Messi returning to full fitness and leading the charge, Argentina remains a formidable force in their quest for another World Cup appearance.
Messi’s hat-trick not only delighted his fans but also reaffirmed his status as one of the greatest players in the history of the game, even as he continues to defy age with performances of this caliber.
