Lionel Messi scored his 10th international hat-trick and provided two assists as Argentina thrashed Bolivia 6-0 in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, in front of an adoring home crowd at the Monumental Stadium.

Making only his second international appearance since recovering from an injury sustained during the Copa América in July, Messi capitalised on a mistake by defender Marcelo Suárez to open the scoring in the 19th minute on Tuesday.

Bolivia's goalkeeper, Guillermo Viscarra, made a couple of fine saves to prevent the hosts from extending their lead, but he was eventually beaten in the 43rd minute when Lautaro Martínez scored from Messi’s swift cross. Argentina extended their lead to 3-0 just before half-time, with Messi setting up Julián Álvarez for the third goal.

Lionel Scaloni’s side continued to dominate in the second half. They appeared to have added a fourth through Nicolás Otamendi, only for the goal to be disallowed due to offside.

Nahuel Molina provided an assist in the 70th minute, enabling substitute Thiago Almada to convert another goal, making it 4-0 to the home side.

Messi, 37, gave Argentina fans even more to celebrate in the final moments, beating two Bolivian defenders before unleashing a fierce shot past Viscarra to score his second goal of the match.

Messi completed his hat-trick just two minutes later, netting a left-footed drive to bring his tally to 112 goals for his country. This goal also drew Messi level with Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo for the most hat-tricks in men’s international football.

“It’s truly wonderful to come here and feel the affection of the people. It moves me how they chant my name,” said Messi, who once again declined to confirm whether he would play in the next World Cup in 2026.

“This drives me—enjoying being happy where I am. Despite my age, when I’m here, I feel like a child again because I’m so comfortable with this team,” he added.

Argentina now lead the South American World Cup qualifiers with 22 points after 10 matches, three points ahead of second-placed Colombia, who defeated Chile 4-0 on Tuesday. Uruguay, who played out a goalless draw with Ecuador earlier in the day, and Brazil are both on 16 points, with Uruguay in third place on goal difference.

Bolivia, seeking to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in 30 years, remain in contention with 12 points. The top six teams will secure automatic places at the 2026 World Cup.