Messi nets hat trick as Argentina steamroll Bolivia

Lionel Messi scored a hat trick and had a hand in two more goals as Argentina crushed Bolivia 6-0 in South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday in front of raucous fans at the Monumental de Nuñez Stadium.

It marked the first time in Messi's international career that he had multiple goals and assists in a single game, and the hat trick was his 10th for Argentina -- tying Cristiano Ronaldo's mark for hat tricks with Portugal.

Making only his second international appearance since recovering from an injury sustained at the Copa América in July, Messi capitalised on a mistake by defender Marcelo Suarez to open the scoring in the 19th minute.

"We enjoyed this, we are happy to be here playing in Argentina," said Messi, who once again refused to say whether he will play in the next World Cup in 2026. "This could be one of the last [matches in front of the Argentinian crowd]."

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Bolivia goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra made a couple of fine saves to prevent the hosts from extending their lead but he was beaten in the 43rd minute when Lautaro Martinez scored from Messi's quick cross.

Argentina made it 3-0 just before the break, Messi setting up Julián Álvarez to score.

Argentina controlled the second half and substitute Thiago Almada added a fourth from Nahuel Molina's pass in the 70th minute before Messi scored twice late on to cap a terrific performance.

Copa América winners Argentina top the standings on 22 points, three clear of Colombia, who beat Chile earlier in the day.

Bolivia, looking to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in 30 years, remain in contention with 12 points.

The 2026 World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.