In a 2026 World Cup qualifying match from South America, Barcelona defeated Bolivia 6-0 on Tuesday. Along with scoring a hat trick, Lionel Messi assisted on two more goals.

In the 19th minute, Messi opened the scoring following a mistake by defender Marcelo Suarez. Since he had to recuperate from an injury sustained during the Copa América in July, this was only his second international match.

Bolivia’s goalkeeper, Guillermo Viscarra, made a few outstanding saves to prevent the home team from extending their lead, but Lautaro Martinez scored in the 43rd minute following a short cross from Messi.

Just before halftime, Messi set up Julián Álvarez for a goal, making the score for Argentina 3-0.

Argentina dominated the second half, and in the 70th minute, substitute Thiago Almada scored his fourth goal after Nahuel Molina had passed to him. Later in the game, Messi added two more goals to complete an outstanding effort.

The Copa América winners Argentina leads with 22 points, three more than Colombia, which defeated Chile earlier in the day.

Three countries will host the 2026 World Cup: the United States, Mexico, and Canada.