Lionel Messi delivered a stunning performance, scoring three goals and providing two assists as Argentina triumphed 6-0 over Bolivia. This match marked his impressive return to home soil after nearly a year. Despite recently turning 37, Messi expressed joy in playing for the national team and remains optimistic about his future, leaving questions about his participation in the 2026 World Cup. Argentina currently leads the South American group, boosting their chances for the upcoming tournament.
With three goals and two assists, Lionel Messi delivered a stunning performance that propelled Argentina to a 6-0 victory. But the question remains: will this legendary player participate in the 2026 World Cup?
Showing remarkable humility, Lionel Messi marked his return to Argentina nearly a year after a disappointing home defeat in World Cup qualifiers. This time, he guided the Albiceleste to a commanding 6-0 (3-0) win against Bolivia. Scoring three goals and aiding in two others, Messi enchanted the fans at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, sparking a palpable excitement as Argentina progresses toward the 2026 World Cup. ‘The electricity of love,’ as noted by ‘La Nacion,’ perfectly captures the atmosphere.
“When I’m here, I still feel like a kid, despite my age, because I feel so at home with this team,” Messi remarked. After celebrating his 37th birthday on June 24, he playfully stated, “I still appear to be a rascal, thanks to all the mischief I do with this team. As long as I’m feeling good and playing the way I enjoy, we’ll keep having fun.” For Messi, this joy translates into electrifying performances on the field.
Having finally clinched the World Cup title after several attempts and leading Argentina to victory at the Copa América in 2021, Messi faced hurdles this year due to injuries. Nonetheless, after setbacks against Colombia and Venezuela, he steered Argentina back on the winning track.
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Messi set the tone for the match by scoring in the 19th minute against Bolivia, with Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez also contributing before halftime. Thiago Almada then scored the fourth goal, followed by Messi netting two more, marking his tenth national team hat-trick as recorded by the association.
Spain’s ‘Marca’ hailed him as the ‘monumental Messi,’ while France’s ‘L’Équipe’ highlighted a ‘sparkling Messi.’ ‘Pagina12’ from his hometown of Rosario praised his exceptional skills at every turn. Antonela Roccuzzo, Messi’s wife, celebrated his achievement on Instagram, calling him ‘the best of all time.’
After ten matchdays, the world champions are leading the South American group in their quest for the 2026 World Cup with 22 points, ahead of Colombia (19) and both Uruguay and Brazil (16). Before his victory in Qatar, Messi had previously stated that it would be his last World Cup, after facing many challenges since 2006, often at the hands of Germany. Under coach Lionel Scaloni, however, Messi has turned into a prolific title-winner representing his nation.
Messi’s Future Remains Uncertain
Reflecting on his future with the national team, Messi stated after the overwhelming win against Bolivia, “I haven’t set any timelines. I just want to enjoy every moment. The affection from the fans touches me deeply. The way they chant my name and the connection we share is special; you never know when it could be the last time.” National team coach Lionel Scaloni expressed his desire for Messi to continue playing for as long as possible, stating, “Watching him on the pitch is a pleasure. He continually amazes us.”
Messi is keenly aware that the upcoming World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada could be an exhilarating celebration of soccer for his fellow countrymen—especially with him as the centerpiece of the event.