Lionel Messi’s Vintage Display Shapes Argentina’s Victory in Conmebol Qualifiers

MONTEVIDEO: Lionel Messi struck a vintage hat-trick as world champions Argentina romped to a 6-0 win over Bolivia in Conmebol World Cup qualifying on Tuesday.

The 37-year-old provided an emphatic reminder of his enduring quality with three clinical finishes, two assists, and some of his trademark creativity throughout the game as Lionel Scaloni’s side dominated. Argentina are now top of the 10-team table with 22 points from ten games, three points clear of second-place Colombia.

Colombians Crush Chile

In a contrasting match, Colombia crushed Chile 4-0 in Barranquilla, with a special retro white kit marking the Colombian Football Federation’s centenary featuring the national flag’s colors in a hoop. The performance of Nestor Lorenzo’s team was equally stylish, taking apart a woeful Chile side that remain rooted last in the 10-team qualifying group.

Brazil’s Comfortable Win

Brazil continued to ease any concerns about their qualification chances with a comfortable 4-0 win over Peru in Brasilia. A pair of penalties converted by Barcelona winger Raphinha put the record five-time World Cup winners on their way, with Andreas Pereira producing a superb scissor-kick volley from a Luiz Henrique cross from the right and Luiz Henrique completing the rout in spectacular style with a brilliant left-foot drive from outside the box.

Paraguay’s Thrilling Win

Paraguay boosted their chances of grabbing one of the six automatic qualification spots after substitute Antonio Sanabria scored twice in a 2-1 win over Venezuela. Full-back Jon Aramburu put Venezuela ahead, but Sanabria brought Paraguay level and then grabbed the winner with a header from close range.

Conclusion

Lionel Messi’s stunning performance and Argentina’s clear dominance have put them in a strong position to qualify for the World Cup. Colombia’s convincing win over Chile has also boosted their chances, while Brazil’s comfortable victory has eased concerns about their qualification campaign. Paraguay’s thrilling win over Venezuela has put them in the hunt for a top-six finish.

FAQs

• What was the score in the Argentina vs. Bolivia match?
  The score was 6-0 in favor of Argentina.
• Who scored a hat-trick in the match?
  Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in the match.
• What was the score in the Colombia vs. Chile match?
  The score was 4-0 in favor of Colombia.
• Who scored the opening goal in the Brazil vs. Peru match?
  Raphinha scored the opening goal from the penalty spot.