Lionel Messi delivered a dazzling performance, scoring a hat trick and setting up two goals, leading Argentina to an emphatic 6-0 victory over Bolivia in a South American World Cup qualifying match. The Monumental de Nuñez Stadium erupted with excitement on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, as the football legend returned to the pitch in style, having missed the last two rounds of qualifiers due to an ankle injury.
The match marked Messi’s triumphant comeback, and he wasted no time making an impact. From the first whistle, Argentina looked sharp, controlling possession and pressing Bolivia high up the field. In the 19th minute, the moment the fans were waiting for arrived. Messi opened the scoring with a sublime goal, reminding everyone why he’s still considered one of the greatest players in the world. The crowd roared as his name echoed around the stadium.
But Messi was far from done.
A Masterclass in Attacking Play
Argentina’s dominance in the game was clear from the outset. They played with an intensity and fluidity that left Bolivia scrambling to keep up. The midfield, led by Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo Fernández, dictated the tempo of the game, while Messi operated as the conductor, pulling the strings and orchestrating Argentina’s attacks. His vision, passing, and dribbling were on full display as he carved open Bolivia’s defense time and time again.
In the 35th minute, Messi added a second goal to his tally, coolly finishing off a brilliant team move. The fans erupted once more, and the Bolivian defenders were left shaking their heads in disbelief. Messi’s finishing was clinical, and his ability to find space in a crowded box was second to none.
By halftime, the score was already 3-0, with Lautaro Martínez contributing to the scoreboard thanks to Messi’s perfectly weighted assist. It was becoming a one-sided affair, and Bolivia had no answers for Argentina’s relentless pressure.
Messi the Playmaker
As the second half began, Argentina showed no signs of slowing down. If anything, they were determined to pile on more goals, and Messi was at the heart of it all. His ability to create chances for his teammates was on full display, as he notched up two assists to further extend Argentina’s lead.
The first assist came in the 53rd minute when Messi sent a precise through ball to Nicolás González, who slotted it past the Bolivian goalkeeper with ease. The second assist was another moment of brilliance, as Messi danced past two defenders and laid the ball on a plate for Ángel Di María, who finished with a simple tap-in.
Messi’s influence on the game was undeniable. Every time he touched the ball, there was a sense of anticipation in the stadium. His ability to dictate play and involve his teammates showcased the complete player that he is. Whether scoring goals or setting them up, Messi was the focal point of Argentina’s attack.
Hat Trick Hero
As the clock ticked down, the only question left was whether Messi would complete his hat trick. The fans were on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the moment. It finally arrived in the 78th minute when Messi pounced on a loose ball in the box and fired it into the back of the net to complete his hat trick.
The Monumental de Nuñez Stadium exploded with joy as Messi ran towards the stands, arms outstretched, celebrating with his adoring fans. The hat trick was a fitting end to a perfect night for Messi and Argentina. It was a performance that will be remembered for years to come, as Messi once again proved why he’s considered a footballing icon.
Argentina’s World Cup Campaign Looks Bright
With this victory, Argentina’s World Cup qualifying campaign continues to gather momentum. The win over Bolivia puts them in a strong position as they aim to secure their place in the 2026 World Cup in North America. With Messi back in the squad and in scintillating form, Argentina looks like one of the favorites to top the South American qualifying group.
Argentina’s defense also deserves credit for keeping a clean sheet. Led by the experienced Nicolás Otamendi, the backline was rock-solid, preventing Bolivia from creating any meaningful chances. Emiliano Martínez, Argentina’s goalkeeper, had a relatively quiet night, thanks to the defensive work of his teammates.
Messi’s Leadership Shines
Beyond his incredible individual performance, what stood out was Messi’s leadership on the pitch. He was constantly encouraging his teammates, offering guidance, and leading by example. As Argentina’s captain, Messi has matured into a leader who can inspire those around him, and this match was a perfect illustration of that.
For Bolivia, it was a night to forget. They were simply outclassed by an Argentina side playing at their very best. Despite their efforts, Bolivia couldn’t cope with Argentina’s pace, skill, and movement, and their World Cup qualifying campaign now looks in jeopardy.
Looking Ahead
With Messi back and firing on all cylinders, Argentina’s fans have every reason to be optimistic about the future. The team looks strong, cohesive, and full of attacking threat. As they continue their march towards World Cup qualification, the focus will be on maintaining this level of performance in the matches to come.
For Messi, the hat trick is yet another milestone in his illustrious career. At 37 years old, he continues to defy expectations and show the world that he still has plenty of magic left in his boots. His performance against Bolivia was a reminder that, even after all these years, Messi remains the heartbeat of the Argentina national team.
As the final whistle blew, the crowd gave Messi a standing ovation. It was a night to remember, not just for the scoreline, but for the way Messi turned the game into his own personal showcase. For Argentina, it was a dominant display, and with Messi leading the way, the future looks incredibly bright.