Lionel Messi Shines with Hat Trick and Two Assists in Argentina’s 6-0 Victory Over Bolivia
Lionel Messi raised his hands in gratitude as his enthusiastic fans cheered and celebrated him.
Playing in his homeland, Messi showcased his extraordinary talent by scoring three goals and providing two assists in a decisive 6-0 victory against Bolivia during a World Cup qualifying game on Tuesday night.
This marked Messi’s first home match in Argentina in over 10 months, and he left the fans at Estadio Mâs Monumental in Buenos Aires with unforgettable memories.
His outstanding performance clearly highlights his excellent form as he gears up for the MLS Cup playoffs with Inter Miami later this month. However, it also prompts fans to wonder how much longer they will witness his remarkable skills on the field.
“It feels wonderful to be here and to feel the crowd’s love. I get excited when they chant my name,” Messi expressed after the match. “The connection with the fans is something we cherish, and we love playing in Argentina. We’re pleased with the victory.”
Messi netted his first goal in the 19th minute and assisted on two goals before halftime. He scored his last two goals just two minutes apart, in the 84th and 86th minutes. This was his first hat trick since he achieved the same feat in a 7-0 victory for Argentina over Curaçao on March 28, 2023.
This emphatic display came from the Inter Miami star, who has played seven matches in the past month following a right ankle injury sustained in the Copa America final on July 14, which kept him out for over two months.
At 37, the legendary player understands that his opportunities to play in Argentina are becoming limited. Messi is signed with Inter Miami until the end of 2025, and fans are hopeful he will compete in the 2026 World Cup.
However, discussions about the next World Cup or retirement can be postponed for now.
Messi is simply savoring the moment.
“I don’t have a specific timeline. I just want to appreciate all of this,” Messi said. “I’m more thrilled than ever to be here and feel the people’s affection because I know these might be some of my last games.”
He celebrated by stretching out his arms as the crowd erupted after scoring in the 19th minute, taking advantage of a steal by teammate Lautaro Martinez to find the bottom right corner of the net.
Later, in the 43rd minute, Messi delivered a precise pass to Martinez, who scored, and he also assisted Julian Alvarez in extra time (45’+3’) for his two assists.
Thiago Almada, a former standout for Atlanta United, also found the net (70’) as Argentina surged ahead, now sitting atop the Conmebol World Cup qualifying standings with 22 points after 10 matches.
As the match neared its conclusion, Messi further captivated the audience with two additional goals in quick succession.
Tuesday’s game concluded a travel-heavy week for Messi with the national team, which had drawn 1-1 in Venezuela just days before, following a late arrival from Miami due to Hurricane Milton. He will return to South Florida on Wednesday to rejoin Inter Miami for their playoff pursuit.
Messi and Inter Miami have already secured the MLS Supporters’ Shield, boasting the best record in 2024. They are aiming for a win in their season finale on Saturday against New England Revolution to achieve a new MLS record of 74 points.
Following this, Inter Miami will begin its MLS Cup Playoffs on October 25, enjoying home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
“This is what motivates me: being content where I am,” Messi remarked. “Despite my age, when I’m here, I feel youthful because I enjoy being part of this team. As long as I’m in good shape and can perform as I strive to, we will keep relishing these experiences.”
Check out these highlights from the Argentina vs. Bolivia match:
Lionel Messi Hat Trick: Argentina 6, Bolivia 0
Lionel Messi completed his hat trick with his third goal in the 86th minute.
Lionel Messi Goal: Argentina 5, Bolivia 0
Messi scored again in the 84th minute, this time using his right foot instead of his signature left foot.
He maneuvered into the box, shifted to his right foot, and netted his second goal of the match.
Thiago Almada Goal: Argentina 4, Bolivia 0
Argentina extended their lead with a goal from former Atlanta United player Thiago Almada in the 70th minute.
Messi Assists Julian Alvarez Goal: Argentina 3, Bolivia 0
It’s a dominating performance for Argentina, highlighted by Messi’s contributions.
He set up Julian Alvarez for a goal right before halftime in extra time (45’+3’), putting Argentina ahead 3-0 over Bolivia.
This marked Messi’s second assist of the night, having already scored in the 19th minute to start the scoring for the World Cup champions.
Messi Assists Lautaro Martinez Goal: Argentina 2, Bolivia 0
Even after scoring, Messi continued to play a crucial role.
He rushed toward the goal again but instead passed to Lautaro Martinez, who scored in the 43rd minute, giving Argentina a 2-0 lead just before halftime.
Though Messi had a chance to shoot, he chose to set up Martinez, who acknowledged Messi in celebration.
Martinez was the top scorer at the Copa America, leading Argentina with five goals during the summer tournament.
Lionel Messi Goal Highlight: Argentina 1, Bolivia 0
Messi took advantage of an opportunity with a loose ball.
Following a challenge from his teammate Lautaro Martínez, Messi charged towards the goal. The only obstacle was the Bolivian goalkeeper, and Messi swiftly capitalized on the opportunity, placing the ball into the lower right corner of the net.
With outstretched arms, Messi connected with the Argentine crowd, basking in their adoration, as his teammates rushed to celebrate their 1-0 lead against Bolivia.
When does the Argentina vs. Bolivia match start?
The match kicks off at 8 p.m. ET (9 p.m. in Argentina).
Where can I watch the live stream of Argentina vs. Bolivia?
The game will be aired on NBC Universo, and you can also stream it on fubo.
Is Messi playing in tonight’s match?
Yes, Messi is part of Argentina’s starting lineup facing Bolivia.
What are the betting odds for Argentina vs. Bolivia?
The odds favor Argentina significantly: they are heavily favored at -1400, whereas Bolivia stands at +2800 to win, and a draw after regulation is at +1200. The over/under for total goals scored is set at 3.5 by BETMGM.
When did Messi last play in Argentina?
Messi’s most recent appearance for Argentina in his home country didn’t end on a high note.
On November 16, 2023, Argentina faced Uruguay and lost 2-0, marking their first defeat since their loss to Saudi Arabia in the opening match of the Qatar World Cup.
Defeats aren’t common for Argentina, who are the reigning World Cup and two-time Copa America champions: they have only lost four of their last 67 matches.
Messi’s hectic week continues with the match against Bolivia
The Argentine national team has journeyed from South Florida to Colombia, then to Venezuela, where they ended up with a 1-1 draw against the Venezuelan team last Thursday.
The team had a comprehensive practice on Monday, following a lighter session on Sunday, in preparation for the match against Bolivia on Tuesday.
After the match with Bolivia, Messi will head back to South Florida for training with Inter Miami.
Inter Miami is set to play its season finale this Saturday against the New England Revolution, with aspirations to achieve 74 points and break the MLS record for points in a season.
The good news for Messi is that he will have a week off before the MLS Cup Playoffs commencement on October 25.
