Lionel Scaloni has been witness to many of Lionel Messi's magical moments over the course of his career but the Argentina manager said on Tuesday that even at the age of 37 his captain continues to amaze him.
Messi, who was making just his second international appearance since recovering from an injury sustained at the Copa America in July, scored his 10th international hat-trick as Argentina beat Bolivia 6-0 in a World Cup qualifier.
The record eight-time Ballon d'Or winner said after the game he would keep playing as long as he can perform the way he wants and Scaloni hoped he would be on the pitch for years to come.
“It never ceases to amaze,” Scaloni said. “At one point I sat down with [assistant coach] Pablo Aimar and tell him that this is wonderful.
LIONEL MESSI HAS GOT A HATRICK THE GREATEST OF ALL TIMEEEEEhttps://t.co/v3WqSF5QAK
— 17 (@DxBruyneSZN) October 16, 2024
“To be able to be on the bench and see the things he does? The team is with him and what I ask him to do is to play as long as he can.”
Despite missing a few players through injury and suspension, Scaloni said he could not be more proud of his squad.
Goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez was suspended for two matches by Fifa for offensive behaviour in September and missed qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia.
“The big players know that if they give the chance to play to a kid who comes from behind they could lose their place. That breath of fresh air generates a lot for us. The boys are behaving in an exemplary manner.”
Apart from his hat-trick Messi had a hand in two more goals as Argentina crushed Bolivia.
This Lionel Messi's assist to Julian Alvarez is too beautiful, and coming from a 37 Y.O. man is crazy. Messi is pure football.pic.twitter.com/2nhwNOTqmp
— Dex (@DexxterUtd) October 16, 2024
Making only his second international appearance since recovering from an injury sustained at the Copa America in July, Messi capitalised on a mistake by defender Marcelo Suarez to open the scoring in the 19th minute.
Bolivia goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra made a couple of fine saves to prevent the hosts from extending their lead but he was beaten in the 43rd minute when Lautaro Martinez scored from Messi's quick cross.
Argentina made it 3-0 just before the break, Messi setting up Julian Alvarez to score.
Argentina controlled the second half and substitute Thiago Almada added a fourth from Nahuel Molina's pass in the 70th minute before Messi scored twice late on to cap a terrific performance.
Copa America winners Argentina top the standings on 22 points, three clear of Colombia.
The 2026 World Cup will be hosted by the US, Mexico and Canada.
Reuters
