The years roll by, but the contest remains the same. Even in their late thirties, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continue their heated historic rivalry, as the Argentine drew level with the Portuguese with his sensational hat-trick against Bolivia on Tuesday.
In just his second appearance after his long injury-layoff, Messi produced yet another night for the ages, as the maestro netted three goals and assisted with two more in Argentina’s FIFA WC Qualifier clash against Bolivia.
Messi menaced the Bolivians at ease in classic fashion, weaving his way in and out of their defense whilst weaving magic of his own with the ball, netting his 10th international hattrick en route to the Albicelestes’ 6-0 win.
With his third goal, Messi equalled his fierce rival Ronaldo’s record, for having scored the joint-most international hattricks in football history, with 10 each.
The hat-trick also took the footballer’s tally to 112 international goals, right behind Ronaldo’s 133 overall international goals, as Argentina continued their unbeaten run in the World Cup qualifiers.
Lionel Messi’s latest hat-trick against Bolivia has brought him level with his greatest rival at the international stage ⚖️Perfectly balanced as all things should be! pic.twitter.com/b3wZxICcAv
— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) October 16, 2024
After scoring his 10th international hat-trick, Messi spoke out about his potential retirement from football, stating that he has not set a deadline regarding his future.
“It’s great to come here (Buenos Aires) and to feel the affection of the people. I’m moved by the way they shout my name. We all enjoy the connection with the people, and we love playing in Argentina. We’re happy about the win,” Messi said after the match.
“I haven’t set a date or deadline regarding my future; I just want to enjoy it all. I’m more excited than ever to be here and feel the affection of the people, because I know that these could be the last games. I hope I achieve my goals to end the year well at the club and then enjoy each day step by step,” he added.
According to him, despite his age, he feels like a kid when he plays for Argentina, and as long as he is feeling good, he wants to continue playing and enjoying it.
“This is what motivates me. Enjoying being happy where I am. Despite my age, when I’m here, I feel like a kid because I feel comfortable with this team. As long as I feel good and can continue to perform as I intend, we’ll continue to enjoy it,” said the Argentine captain.
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