- Lionel Messi scores a hat-trick and delivers two assists in Argentina’s win over Bolivia.
- “Being surrounded by younger teammates makes me feel like a kid again,” Messi said.
- Argentina tops the South American qualifiers with 22 points after 10 matches.
Lionel Messi displayed his ageless brilliance again as he led Argentina to a 6-0 victory over Bolivia in the South American World Cup qualifiers.
In what can only be described as a vintage performance, the 37-year-old netted three goals and delivered two assists, all while reminding the world that his connection with the game remains as deep as ever. Beneath the surface of this dazzling display, Messi talked about his ending career, suggesting that the end might be on the horizon.
After the match, the former Barcelona superstar also expressed his emotional bond with Argentina's fans,
“It is very nice to play here feeling the affection of the Argentina fans. It makes me emotional to listen to how they shout my name. We all enjoy this connection with the fans, and we love playing at home.”
The game started with Messi exploiting a Bolivian defensive error to net his first goal of the evening. His pinpoint assist to Lautaro Martínez in the 42nd minute and another to Julián Álvarez in added time secured a comfortable 3-0 lead at halftime. With Bolivia struggling to keep up, Argentina continued to dominate after the break, as Thiago Almada scored from close range after a low cross by Nahuel Molina.
Messi’s finale came in the form of two stunning goals from the edge of the box in the closing stages, one in the 84th minute and another just two minutes later.
After the final whistle, Messi couldn’t help but reflect on the joy that the game still brings him. “Being surrounded by younger teammates, given my age, makes me feel like a kid again. I find myself doing silly things because I feel so comfortable, as long as I maintain that feeling and can continue contributing to the team, I plan to be here enjoying (the national team).”
Argentina's manager, Lionel Scaloni, shared his sentiments and stressed Messi’s importance to the squad,
“The only thing I ask of him is to keep playing as long as he can, he never ceases to amaze us.”
With this victory, Argentina are now sitting three points clear of Colombia with 22 points after 10 matches. Messi’s hat-trick also brought him to the level of Cristiano Ronaldo for career international hat-tricks, both boasting 10.
Messi explains his new celebration after draw with Charlotte FC
Former Barcelona star Lionel Messi’s magic was on display once again as he delivered a game-tying goal in Inter Miami’s 1-1 draw against Charlotte FC on Saturday night, September 28. The Argentine superstar’s celebration captivated fans worldwide.
After his 67th-minute equaliser, Messi mimicked Iron Man’s liftoff pose, raising his heels and extending his hands by his sides, signalling to fans and his family in the stands. The idea came from his children, with whom he claims he shares a special connection through their love of Marvel movies.
