Argentina x Bolivia: Messi Shines with a Hat-Trick, Almada Scores, and Argentina Thrashes Bolivia 6 to 0.

In the 2026 World Cup, on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, Argentina achieved an impressive 6-0 victory over Bolivia in the 10th round of the qualifiers, solidifying its lead in the tournament. The match took place at the Estadio Monumental de Núñez in Buenos Aires, attracting a large crowd to support the current world champions.

Match Highlights: Argentina vs Bolivia

Messi and the Power of Attack

In the early minutes of the match, there was a personal duel between Messi and the Bolivian goalkeeper Viscarra. The Argentine star constantly pressured the opponent, especially during free kicks. However, at the 18th minute, Lionel Messi broke through the Bolivian defense with a beautiful long-range shot, putting Argentina ahead 1-0. As the match progressed, the Argentine team continued to threaten the Bolivian goal. At the 42nd minute, Lautaro Martínez doubled the lead, and shortly after, in stoppage time, Julián Álvarez scored the third goal, ending the first half with a score of 3-0.

Messi's Hat-Trick and Almada's Goal

In the second half, even with the victory practically secured, coach Lionel Scaloni maintained control of the game. Although a goal from Romero was disallowed for offside after a VAR review, Thiago Almada, who came on at half-time, scored the fourth goal in the 69th minute after receiving a cross from the right. Messi, always in the spotlight, didn't stop there. In the 84th minute, he scored his second goal of the match, extending the lead to 5-0. Finally, in the 86th minute, Lionel Messi completed his hat-trick, sealing the victory with the sixth Argentine goal.

Current Standings: Argentina vs Bolivia

Argentina

• Position: 1st place
• Points: 19
• Status: Argentina is performing exceptionally in the qualifiers, with the recent 6-0 victory over Bolivia, remaining at the top of the table.

Bolivia

• Position: 7th place
• Points: 12
• Status: Bolivia is facing difficulties in the qualifiers, with a recent loss complicating its situation in the race for qualification.

Lineup and Technical Statistics: Argentina vs Bolivia

Argentina vs Bolivia World Cup — 10th round

Date: October 15, 2024 (Tuesday) Location: Estadio Monumental de Núñez, Buenos Aires In the qualifying match, Argentina showcased an impressive performance by defeating Bolivia 6-0, maintaining its strong performance. Lionel Messi was the standout, opening the scoring and completing a hat-trick, securing a decisive victory for the team.

Goals:

• Lionel Messi, 18' (1-0)
• Lautaro Martínez, 42' (2-0)
• Julián Álvarez, 47' (3-0)
• Thiago Almada, 69' (4-0)
• Lionel Messi, 84' (5-0)
• Lionel Messi, 86' (6-0)

Argentina's Lineup:

• Goalkeeper: Rulli
• Defenders: Molina, Cristian Romero, Otamendi (Lisandro Martínez, 27'/2T), Tagliafico
• Midfielders: De Paul (Palacios, 18'/2T), Enzo Fernández, Mac Allister (Paredes, 19'/2T)
• Forwards: Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martínez (Nico Paz, 27'/2T), Julián Álvarez (Thiago Almada, 19'/2T)

Coach: Lionel Scaloni

Bolivia's Lineup:

• Goalkeeper: Viscarra
• Defenders: Diego Medina, Jaquín, Marcelo Suárez, José Sagrado
• Midfielders: Roberto Fernández (Luis Paz, 21'/2T), Villamil, Robson Matheus (Trásasas, 34'/2T)
• Forwards: Ramiro Vaca, Miglitto (Lucas Chaves, 22'/2T), Algaraniás (Enzo Montero, 33'/2T)

Coach: Óscar Villegas

Referee Information:

• Main Referee: Kevin Paul Ortega (PER)
• Assistants: Michael Oru (PER) and Jesús Sánchez (PER)
• VAR: Diego Haro (PER)
• Yellow Cards: Algaraniás (BOL)

This match marked the continuation of Argentina's strength in the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, accumulating 19 points and remaining in the lead, while Bolivia has 12 points, occupying 7th place, facing challenges to qualify. The offensive performance of Argentina certainly left fans excited, and Lionel Messi reaffirmed his excellence once again.

Fans and Post-Match Statements

After the match, Lionel Messi commented on the excellent collective performance of the team, highlighting the importance of cohesion in the attack. Fans on social media praised the team's performance, especially Messi's hat-trick, which once again confirmed his exceptional skill. Coach Lionel Scaloni expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, particularly with the growth of younger players.

Lionel Messi stated:

“We showed great teamwork during the game, especially in attack. Everyone was fighting for the victory. It’s an honor to score three goals and help the team achieve this win.”