Lionel Messi matches Cristiano Ronaldo for most hat-tricks record

Lionel Messi delivered a mesmerizing performance, matching Cristiano Ronaldo's remarkable record as Argentina triumphed over Bolivia in the South American qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The iconic Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires was the backdrop for this thrilling encounter, where Messi showcased his extraordinary talent by scoring three goals and providing two assists. His contributions were pivotal in Argentina's commanding display, leaving both fans and football experts in awe. This match marked Messi's 10th international hat-trick, making him joint holder of the record for the most hat-tricks in international football alongside Ronaldo. With this latest achievement, Messi has now accumulated an impressive total of 112 international goals, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest players of all time.

Argentina's victory not only underscores their dominance in the qualifiers but also highlights the team's impressive unbeaten streak. Messi's performance served as a reminder of his enduring brilliance and ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most. As Argentina looks ahead to the World Cup, this display of skill and poise will undoubtedly bolster their confidence. Fans around the world celebrated this historic moment, as Messi continues to inspire a new generation of footballers while adding to his legacy on the international stage.

The 37-year-old Lionel Messi showcased his remarkable skills with a stunning performance, netting three clinical goals and providing two assists as Lionel Scaloni's side thoroughly dominated the match. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner opened the scoring in the 19th minute after Bolivian defender Marcelo Suarez was dispossessed by Lautaro Martinez. Messi seized the opportunity, skillfully slotting the ball into the bottom corner. The home crowd at Buenos Aires' Monumental Stadium erupted again in the 43rd minute when Julian Alvarez delivered a brilliant pass to Messi. In a display of selflessness, Messi squared the ball for Martinez, who finished with precision.

Just three minutes later, Alvarez added his name to the scoresheet. Bolivia was caught off guard during a free-kick, allowing Messi to chip the ball over the defense. Alvarez capitalized on the moment, slotting home with ease. Messi's creativity and leadership were on full display throughout the match, reinforcing his status as one of football's all-time greats. His ability to orchestrate plays and involve teammates underscored Argentina's attacking prowess, leaving fans in awe as they celebrated another memorable night in international football.

Lionel Messi, at 37, delivered a stunning performance, scoring three goals and providing two assists as Argentina dominated Bolivia in the South American qualifiers. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner opened the scoring in the 19th minute, taking advantage of a defensive error by Bolivian Marcelo Suarez, and coolly slotting the ball into the bottom corner. The crowd at Buenos Aires' Monumental Stadium erupted again in the 43rd minute when Julian Alvarez threaded a brilliant pass to Messi. Showing his trademark selflessness, Messi squared the ball for Lautaro Martinez, who finished with precision.

Just three minutes later, Alvarez found the net himself, taking advantage of Bolivia’s lapse during a free-kick. Messi chipped the ball over the defense, allowing Alvarez to slot it home effortlessly. Throughout the match, Messi's creativity and leadership shone, reinforcing his status as one of football's greatest players. His ability to orchestrate plays and involve teammates highlighted Argentina's attacking strength, leaving fans in awe as they celebrated yet another unforgettable night of international football. This performance also marked Messi's 10th international hat-trick, tying him with Cristiano Ronaldo for the most in history.