Lionel Messi's Speculative Farewell after Argentina's Big Win
The struggling Bolivians were given a thumping 6-0 defeat from Argentina in a thriller of a World Cup Qualifier match as Lionel Messi finalized his name on the scoresheet with a hat-trick to reignite loud murmurs about his future with the national side. The Argentine side did more wonders, absorbing an unnecessary 73% possession and registering total shots on target, amounting to 14. Messi made it to the net at 19, 84, and 86 minutes. Lautaro Martínez, Julián Alvarez, and Thiago Almada made Argentina mark their names in the scoresheet.
Messi featured post-match interviews over the words he uttered
Emotionally, Messi had no schedule for his international career. These could be the last games,
Messi said, making it feel like he savors every second, even the unmatched support from fans in Argentina. The crowd at Estadio Mâs Monumental cheered in appreciation of the 37-year-old as he played a starring role in helping Argentina secure their place atop South American standings with 22 points.
Messi's Historic Hat-Trick and Record-Breaking Numbers
The match was Messi's 10th international hat-trick and increased his overall goal tally to 112. One came from the mishap of the mistake made by the Bolivian defender, and the other two were class finishers from the edge of the box. Messi was also the provider for Martínez's and Alvarez's goals, and showed why he will always be a vital element to the success of Argentina's attack. This win puts Argentina in a great position heading into 2026 as they finish atop the standings with three points clear of Colombia.
Brazil's 4-0 Triumph Over Peru
Meanwhile, in Brazil, their Seleção continued onward, gliding past a Peru that needed a win badly. Qualification for the World Cup was now only but an even bigger afterthought for them as they joyfully cruised to a 4-0 win. The man of the hour, however, was Raphinha. And that was two penalties well taken: one in the 38th minute and the other, now at the start of the second half, and after both handball infractions made by Carlos Zambrano, which VAR confirmed.
Brazil's other goals were scored by Andreas Pereira in the 71st minute off a volley, and Luiz Henrique curled one in from outside the box. For Brazil, this was one such pitch where they have made a statement win-second victory on the trot-and they are working their socks off to close the gap between themselves and Argentina on the top of the standings.
What is next for Argentina and Brazil?
The more qualifying rounds in November will only make it tougher on the teams, but for now, Argentina is in the lead with 22 points after 10 games, followed by Colombia with 19 and Brazil with 16. Yet, both teams remain aggressive in order to ensure their qualification to the 2026 World Cup: Argentina intends to dominate at the top and Brazil plans to move up.
The added emotional depth to the campaign of Messi's potential farewell makes the Argentine campaign, whereas Brazil just finds their form at the right time, thanks in part to the overall several brilliant performances from Raphinha, among others. And each side still feels very many strong contenders for the tournament as the qualifiers continue.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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