Lionel Messi matches Cristiano Ronaldo’s hat-trick record with a classic display for Argentina.
Lionel Messi turned back the clock with a stellar performance for Argentina on Tuesday, netting a hat-trick in his nation’s 6-0 rout of Bolivia during a 2026 World Cup qualifier.
The 37-year-old’s 10th international hat-trick ties him with Cristiano Ronaldo for the most in men’s soccer.
“It’s amazing to come here and feel the love from the fans; it moves me when they chant my name,” Messi said after his remarkable display at Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.
“This fuels me. I’m happy, and even at my age, I feel like a kid with this team. As long as I’m playing well and enjoying it, I’ll keep going.”
Alongside his three goals, the Inter Miami star also contributed two assists, helping the reigning world champions cruise to victory. Messi opened the scoring in the 19th minute, taking advantage of a defensive mistake.