Lionel Messi continues to redefine greatness in football.
His recent hat-trick against Bolivia in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers marks his
10th career international hat-trick. This achievement not only propels
Argentina to the top of their qualifying group but also brings Messi level with
Cristiano Ronaldo for the most hat-tricks in men's international football—a
record that seemed unbreakable just a few years ago.
A New Milestone in Messi's Stellar Career
Messi's brilliance against Bolivia was on full display, as
he scored three goals and provided two assists, leading Argentina to a
resounding 6-0 victory. With this performance, Messi now has 112 goals in 189
appearances for Argentina, showcasing his unmatched consistency and versatility
on the field. His ability to deliver under pressure remains unparalleled,
reinforcing his status as one of the most reliable players for his national
team.
Comparing Legends: Messi vs. Ronaldo
Messi and Ronaldo have been the two pillars of modern
football, pushing each other to new heights throughout their careers. While
Ronaldo holds a record 133 international goals, Messi's milestone of 10
international hat-tricks in fewer matches (189 compared to Ronaldo's 216) is a
testament to his efficiency and playmaking brilliance. Their rivalry has always
fueled debates among fans, but Messi's recent form adds another chapter to this
legendary contest.
Breaking Down the Stats
Total
International Goals: Messi has 112 goals, while Ronaldo has 133.
Hat-Tricks:
Both Messi and Ronaldo now have 10 international hat-tricks, with Messi
achieving this in fewer appearances.
Goal
Distribution:
Friendly
Matches: Messi – 51 goals
Copa
América: 14 goals
World
Cup Qualifiers: 34 goals
World
Cup: 13 goals
The Impact Beyond Numbers
What sets Messi apart is not just his goal-scoring prowess
but also his ability to uplift his team with his playmaking skills. In the game
against Bolivia, Messi's influence went beyond scoring—he assisted his
teammates with precision, creating opportunities that led to more goals. His
leadership on the pitch was evident, guiding Argentina to the top of their
group despite recent setbacks.
The Legacy of Messi: More Than Just Records
Messi’s 10th hat-trick isn't just about numbers; it's about
his unyielding desire to push boundaries. This accomplishment adds to his
legacy as a player who consistently performs at the highest level, even at 37
years old. His rivalry with Ronaldo has been a significant part of football's
narrative, and by matching Ronaldo's hat-trick record, Messi once again proves
that age is just a number for a true legend.
Messi's Brilliance Shines Brighter Than Ever
Lionel Messi’s 10th international hat-trick is more than
just another record—it’s a symbol of his enduring excellence and his ability to
lead Argentina to victory time and again. His performances keep fans on the
edge of their seats, and as the debate between Messi and Ronaldo continues,
this achievement adds yet another layer to his storied career.
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