Messi Shines with Hat-Trick: Argentina's Goal Festival Against Bolivia

Lionel Messi once again captivated the football world by scoring an impressive hat-trick and playing a crucial role in two other goals. In the South American World Cup 2026 qualifying match, the Argentine national team celebrated an overwhelming 6-0 victory against Bolivia. In only his second international appearance following an injury at the Copa America in July, Messi capitalized coldly on a mistake by Bolivian defender Marcelo Suarez, putting Argentina ahead with his goal in the 19th minute. Despite some remarkable saves by Bolivian goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra, he could not prevent the 2-0 when Lautaro Martinez scored just before halftime following a quick assist from Messi. Shortly thereafter, the Argentinians added a third goal through Julian Alvarez, again assisted by Messi. In the second half, the team continued to dominate the proceedings. Substitute Thiago Almada increased the lead to 4-0 after an assist from Nahuel Molina in the 70th minute, before Messi completed the half dozen with two late goals, crowning his extraordinary performance. The Copa America winners from Argentina now lead the qualifying table with 22 points, three points ahead of Colombia. The World Cup 2026 will be held in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.