Lionel Messi had plenty of reason to smile as he led the Argentine men’s national football team to a 6-0 steamrolling of Bolivia at the Monumental stadium. Taking control of the ball, Argentina was able to make the most of the previously unheard-of attacking trio of Messi, Julián Álvarez, and Lautaro Martínez. The two strikers were tasked with pressing the Bolivian defenders, allowing Messi to roam the pitch and find gaps to exploit. Messi took over the game in the last minutes, scoring twice in the 83rd and 85th minutes. First he dribbled into the box for a low shot and then combined with Albiceleste debutant Nicolás Paz to slot in the final 6-0.

Source: Bueno Aires Herald October 16, 2024 15:29 UTC