Messi, making only his second international appearance since recovering from an injury sustained at the Copa America in July, opened the scoring in the 19th minute by capitalizing on a mistake by defender Marcelo Suarez. Despite some fine saves by Bolivia goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra, Messi's quick cross set up Lautaro Martinez to score in the 43rd minute, and Messi himself assisted Julian Alvarez to make it 3-0 just before the break.
In the second half, Argentina continued to control the game. Substitute Thiago Almada added a fourth goal from Nahuel Molina's pass in the 70th minute. Messi then scored twice late in the game to complete his hattrick, capping off a terrific performance.
This win solidifies Argentina's position at the top of the standings with 22 points, three clear of Colombia. The 2026 World Cup, to be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is on the horizon, and Argentina's form suggests they are strong contenders.
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