In a spectacular display of skill and finesse, Lionel Messi brought the Estadio Más Monumental in Buenos Aires to its feet as he led Argentina to a resounding 6-0 victory over Bolivia in a World Cup qualifying match. This encounter marked Messi’s first appearance on home soil in 334 days, and he made sure it was a night to remember for his adoring fans.
Messi’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary, as he scored a hat trick and provided two assists, showcasing his enduring brilliance on the pitch. The match was significant not only for the scoreline but also for the emotional connection Messi has with his fans, who serenaded him throughout the game, expressing their love and admiration.
The iconic forward opened the scoring in the 19th minute, setting the tone for the evening. Before halftime, he registered two assists, displaying his ability to not only find the back of the net but also to create opportunities for his teammates. His final two goals came in quick succession in the 84th and 86th minutes, completing his hat trick and marking the 10th time he has achieved this feat for the Argentine national team. Remarkably, this match also marked the first time in his international career that he recorded multiple goals and assists in the same game.
Messi’s performance is a testament to his current form as he prepares for the upcoming MLS Cup playoffs with Inter Miami. His display against Bolivia left fans and analysts alike buzzing about how much longer they can witness his remarkable talent on the field. “It’s great to come here, to feel the affection of the people. I’m excited when they shout my name,” Messi expressed after the match. “We all enjoy the connection with the people and we love playing in Argentina. We’re happy with the win.”
The victory was crucial for Argentina in the World Cup qualifying campaign, and Messi’s contributions were pivotal in ensuring that the team secured the necessary points. His scoring prowess has now elevated him to 110 goals for Argentina, positioning him second on the all-time scoring list for national teams, surpassing Iran’s Ali Daei, who has 108 goals. The only player ahead of him is Cristiano Ronaldo, who boasts 133 goals for Portugal, including 10 hat tricks.
At 37 years old, Messi is acutely aware that his opportunities to play in front of his home fans are dwindling. With his contract at Inter Miami running until the end of 2025, discussions about the next World Cup or the possibility of retirement have begun to surface. However, Messi remains focused on the present and expressed his joy in playing for the national team. “This is what drives me. Enjoying being happy where I am,” he said. “Despite my age, when I’m here, I look like a kid because I feel comfortable with this team. As long as I feel good and can continue to perform as I intend, we’ll continue to enjoy it.”
The match capped off a busy week for the Argentine squad, which included a challenging 1-1 draw against Venezuela just days prior. This game was not without its complications, as the team had to navigate travel delays and inclement weather due to Hurricane Milton. Nevertheless, Messi’s leadership and performance on the field demonstrated his resilience and commitment to his country.
Following the match, Messi will return to South Florida to rejoin Inter Miami as they prepare for the upcoming MLS Cup Playoffs. Inter Miami has already secured the MLS Supporters’ Shield, which recognizes the best regular-season record in the league for 2024. A victory in their season finale against the New England Revolution on Saturday will allow them to set a new MLS record with 74 points. Messi’s contributions will be crucial as they look to maintain momentum heading into the playoffs.
The MLS Cup Playoffs will commence on October 25, and Inter Miami will enjoy the advantage of home-field throughout the tournament, increasing their chances of success. Messi’s performance against Bolivia has not only solidified his status as a legendary player but also serves as a reminder of the joy and excitement he brings to the sport. Fans will undoubtedly be looking forward to witnessing more magical moments from the maestro in the upcoming matches.
As Messi continues to thrill audiences worldwide, his presence in the sport remains a source of inspiration for fans and aspiring players alike. His ability to connect with the crowd and deliver unforgettable performances exemplifies why he is regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Whether he’s playing for Argentina or Inter Miami, Messi’s passion for the game and his unwavering dedication to excellence will undoubtedly keep fans on the edge of their seats for years to come.
