Messi’s hat-trick leads Argentina to 6-0 win over Bolivia

KATHMANDU: Argentina, the reigning champions, triumphed over Bolivia with a commanding 6-0 win in the World Cup American qualifiers, thanks to a brilliant hat-trick from captain Lionel Messi.

The match took place at Estadio Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti on Wednesday morning.

This victory marks Argentina’s seventh win in the 10-nation tournament, solidifying their position with a total of 22 points from 10 matches, three points ahead of second-placed Colombia.

Bolivia, currently in seventh place, has managed to accumulate only 12 points from the same number of games.

Messi scored his hat-trick in the 19th, 84th, and 86th minutes of the game. Lautaro Martínez added another goal in the 43rd minute, while Julián Álvarez found the net during the third minute of first-half injury time.

Messi played a crucial role in both of those goals by creating the opportunities. In the 70th minute, Thiago Almada scored from a cross delivered by Nahuel Molina, further sealing Argentina’s decisive victory.