In a breathtaking World Cup qualifying match, Lionel Messi once again showed the world why he’s considered one of the greatest footballers of all time. With an impressive hat trick and two assists, Messi led Argentina to a dominating 6-0 victory over Bolivia. This performance, his first hat trick for Argentina since March 2023, left fans in awe and further cemented Messi’s legacy.

Whether you’re a long-time Messi fan or just a football enthusiast, this game was a clear reminder that the 37-year-old legend still has plenty to offer. Let’s dive into the highlights of this historic match and the journey ahead for Messi and Argentina.

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The Highlights of Messi’s Masterclass Performance

1. The Opening Goal (19th Minute)
Messi’s magic began early in the game. In the 19th minute, a quick pass from Lautaro Martinez set up Messi for a clinical finish to the bottom right corner, marking the first goal of the match. It was a goal that not only gave Argentina an early lead but also showcased Messi’s incredible precision.

⚽️⚽️⚽️ ¡HAT-TRICK DE LEO MESSI!

Otra vez Lionel, tres goles y dos asistencias en la noche 😍

🇦🇷 #Argentina 6-0 #Bolivia 🇧🇴

📺📱 EN VIVO por @NBCUniverso y Telemundo APP ➡️ https://t.co/v8GxDL2T2P#RumboAlMundial #MundialTelemundo #EliminatoriasSudamericanas pic.twitter.com/qrFhjwqlbr

— Telemundo Deportes (@TelemundoSports) October 16, 2024

2. Two Key Assists Before Halftime
By halftime, Messi had not only scored but also set up his teammates for success. In the 43rd minute, Messi delivered a perfect pass to Martinez, allowing him to score the second goal. Minutes later, Messi found Julian Alvarez with a beautiful assist during stoppage time, further extending Argentina’s lead to 3-0.

3. A Hat Trick to Remember
As if his first-half heroics weren’t enough, Messi finished the night with two more goals in quick succession. In the 84th minute, Messi struck again, followed by another in the 86th minute to complete his hat trick. These goals brought the entire stadium to its feet, with fans cheering for their national hero.

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Messi’s Legacy: What Comes Next?

This match was a testament to Messi’s enduring brilliance, but it also leaves fans wondering what lies ahead. With Messi under contract at Inter Miami until 2025 and potentially playing in the 2026 World Cup, there’s still more history to be made. Messi himself acknowledges that these may be some of his last games for Argentina, but he’s not setting any deadlines.

¡GOLAAAZO DE ARGENTINA! ⚽️

Thiago Almada se une a la fiesta y marca el cuarto del partido 🧨💥

🇦🇷 #Argentina 4-0 #Bolivia 🇧🇴

📺📱 EN VIVO por @NBCUniverso y Telemundo APP ➡️ https://t.co/v8GxDL2T2P#RumboAlMundial #MundialTelemundo #EliminatoriasSudamericanas pic.twitter.com/5ePBsePCHm

— Telemundo Deportes (@TelemundoSports) October 16, 2024

“I haven’t set a date or deadline. I just want to enjoy all of this,” Messi shared post-match. “As long as I feel good and can continue to perform, we’ll continue to enjoy it.”

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Messi and the MLS Playoffs

After a stellar performance in the World Cup qualifier, Messi is set to return to the United States to rejoin his Inter Miami team for their upcoming playoff run. Inter Miami has already clinched the MLS Supporters’ Shield, and with Messi back in form, they’re gearing up for a deep playoff push. The season finale against New England Revolution could be a record-setting moment as the team looks to make history with 74 points.