Messi matches Cristiano Ronaldo's hat-trick record as Argentina runs riot against Bolivia

Messi hunts down Ronaldo with a hat-trick as Argentina demolishes Bolivia 6-0 in World Cup qualifier.

In front of a rapturous home crowd at Monumental Stadium, Argentina defeated Bolivia 6-0 in South American qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

It was a historic performance as Lionel Messi scored his 10th international hat-trick and dished out two assists.

In just his second international match after bouncing back from an injury incurred at the Copa America in July, Messi scored the game's first goal in the 19th minute.

Guillermo Viscarra, the goalkeeper for Bolivia, made a few excellent saves to deny the hosts from adding to their advantage, but in the 43rd minute, Lautaro Martinez scored off of Messi's short pass.

Just before halftime, Argentina took a 3-0 lead thanks to a goal by Julian Alvarez set up by Messi.

The second half was also dominated by Lionel Scaloni's team With another goal from Thiago Almada in the 70th minute to put the home team up 4-0.

In the dying seconds, Messi gave Argentina supporters even more cause to cheer as he outran two Bolivian defenders and then fired a strong effort past Viscarra for his second goal of the match.

It took Messi just two more minutes to complete his hat-trick and electrify the crowd.

With 112 goals for his nation, the Argentine captain has now matched Cristiano Ronaldo to become the record holder for most hat-tricks in men's international football.

Speaking after the game, Messi took to social media to say, " really wanted to play in Argentina again and I am more excited than ever by the affection and connection with the people. We continue ahead with the same enthusiasm!"

Messi now returns to action with Inter Miami after winning the Supporters Shield in the MLS Playoffs.

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