Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi stunned fans in Argentina after scoring a hat-trick in their 6-0 win over Bolivia in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Wednesday morning.
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It was a memorable occasion for Argentina supporters as they got to see Messi in action at home for the first time this year.
The 37-year-old stole the show as the world champions thrashed Bolivia at the Estadio Mas Monumental in Buenos Aires, making it seven victories in 10 matches in South America's World Cup qualifying programme.
Messi opened the scoring in the 19th minute, before assisting Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez's goals before the break.
After Thiago Almada netted the team's fourth, the Inter Miami superstar found the back of the net two more times in the final 10 minutes of the game.
Argentina fans were in a celebratory mood with chants and songs throughout the encounter, an atmosphere appreciated by the side's long-standing captain.
"I didn't set any date or deadline about my future," he said after the game, according to ABC.
"I'm just enjoying all this. I am more emotional than ever and taking all the love from the people because I know these can be my last games."
Messi has now scored 112 goals for Argentina, making him the second-best scorer in international football history, after Cristiano Ronaldo.
"It's a joy to be present and appreciate this moment. Being surrounded by younger teammates, given my age, makes me feel like a kid again," he added.
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"I find myself doing silly things because I feel so comfortable. As long as I maintain that feeling and can continue contributing to the team, I plan to be here enjoying (the national team)."
