Messi Magic: The Argentine Maestro Shines Again in Dominant Win Over Bolivia
October 16, 2024, 12:27 AM ET
Lionel Messi, the maestro of the pitch, put on a show for Argentina, scoring three goals and providing two assists in a crushing 6-0 win over Bolivia in South American World Cup qualifying. The 37-year-old superstar, who missed the previous rounds due to a right ankle injury, played from start to finish and cemented his place in the record books.
"I’m just enjoying all this," Messi said, beaming with emotion. "I know these can be my last games, and I’m trying to savor every moment with the national team."
Messi’s performance, his first hat-trick in a single game for Argentina, took him to 112 international goals, tying Cristiano Ronaldo’s record. The victory kept Argentina top of the standings with 22 points, three points clear of second-place Colombia.
The Argentine superstar broke his silence on his future, hinting that he may not continue beyond the 2026 World Cup. "I didn’t set a deadline, but I’m just enjoying the ride. I’m more emotional than ever, taking all the love from the people."
The result was never in doubt, with Argentina dominant from start to finish. Messi opened the scoring after a Bolivian defender’s mistake allowed him to run freely and finish unchallenged. He then set up Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez for goals, before adding two more late in the game.
"I’m trying to be present, appreciate this moment, and feel like a kid again," Messi said, his joy evident. "As long as I maintain that feeling and can continue contributing to the team, I plan to be here enjoying [the national team]."
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni, who has been instrumental in Messi’s continued development, shared in the joy, reiterating his desire to keep the superstar involved for as long as possible. "The only thing I ask of him is to keep playing as long as he can. It’s a joy to watch him on the soccer field. He never ceases to amaze us."
The result was a significant boost for Argentina, who will look to maintain their lead in the final rounds of qualifying. With the 2026 World Cup just around the corner, the team will be eager to defend their title.
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