Lionel Messi netted a hat-trick in Argentina’s 6-0 World Cup qualifying win against Bolivia – and admitted it gave him added pleasure knowing “these could be his last games” before retirement.
The 37-year-old, who also provided two assists, was at his sparking best at El Monumental, turning back the clock with a vintage display in front of an adoring crowd.
Having opened the scoring, Messi then provided the passes for goals for Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez before he scored twice himself in the final 10 minutes to complete his 10th international hat-trick and reach 112 goals for his country.
This team is from another world 🚀 pic.twitter.com/Zan2VoAFFc
— Selección Argentina in English (@AFASeleccionEN) October 16, 2024
He said: “It is very nice to play here feeling the affection of the Argentina fans. It makes me emotional to listen how they shout my name. We all enjoy this connection with the fans and we love playing at home.”
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No date and no deadline
Asked about his future, the Inter Miami forward added: “I didn’t set any date or deadline about my future. 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.
“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. 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].”
The win maintained Argentina’s place at the top of the Conmebol qualifying section and they are a shoo-in to qualify for the finals in two years’ time as they look to defend the title they won in 2022.
Scaloni hails his talisman
Coach Lionel Scaloni, the architect of their win in Qatar, will hope to have Messi in the squad when they take on the world’s best in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
He said: “The only thing I ask of him is to keep playing as long as he can. It’s a joy to watch him on the soccer field. He never ceases to amaze us.”
