Lionel Messi equals insane Cristiano Ronaldo record after hat-trick heroics for Argentina in World Cup qualifying

Lionel Messi equalled rival Cristiano Ronaldo's record after scoring a hat-trick for Argentina against Bolivia in World Cup qualifying.

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• Messi equals Ronaldo's record
• Scored 10th international hat-trick against Bolivia
• Netted three goals and provided two assists in Argentina's win

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  The Argentina skipper was in red-hot form against Bolivia on Tuesday as he scored a hat-trick and provided two assists in his team's 6-0 win over Bolivia in a 2026 CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying match. It was Messi's 10th international hat-trick as he equalled Ronaldo's all-time international record.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  On the same night, Ronaldo was also in action for Portugal against Scotland in the Nations League. The Al-Nassr star had a disappointing outing as the resilient Scots held the 2016 European Champions to a goalless draw, forcing their skipper to throw tantrums at the end of the game.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  La Albiceleste registered their seventh win of the 2026 CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers as they are on course to book a berth in the flagship competition from South America. They are currently three points above second-placed Colombia and six above arch-rivals Brazil.

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  WHAT NEXT FOR LIONEL MESSI?

  The 37-year-old will return to club football after displaying a mesmerising performance for the national team. He will be next seen in action for Inter Miami on Saturday against the New England Revolution in MLS.