Lionel Messi delivered another iconic performance on the international stage for Argentina, leading La Albiceleste to a 6-0 win over Bolivia with a hat trick and two assists – while also slightly teasing retirement from his national team.

It was his first goal for Argentina since their Copa América semi-final victory over Canada and only his second appearance for the team, having been left injured in the final of that tournament against Colombia on 14 July.

With Messi not playing during the September international break, Argentina picked up three points against Chile before falling to Colombia in the 2020 CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier. However, he started both games of the October international break, last week’s 1-1 draw against Venezuela and the recent win against Bolivia, keeping Argentina at the top of the CONMEBOL standings.

After the game, the 37-year-old admitted that he could well play in the Argentina jersey for the last few games as he is at the end of his career.

“I have not set a date or deadline for my future,” he said. “I just enjoy it all. I’m more emotional than ever and accepting all the love from people because I know these could be my last games.”

Messi put on a show in front of a crowd at the Estadio Mâs Monumental in Buenos Aires, Argentina, who couldn’t stop chanting his name from the first minute. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was full of gratitude to be able to play on home soil for the first time since November 2023.

“It’s very nice to play here and feel the love of the Argentine fans. It makes me emotional to hear them calling my name. We all enjoy this connection with the fans and we love playing at home,” said Messi.

23-year-old Thiago Almada and 24-year-old Julián Alvarez were the other two players to get on the scoresheet for Argentina. Messi noted that the presence of a younger player makes him feel more comfortable when it comes to performing various moves and tricks in the final third.

“It’s a pleasure to be there and to appreciate this moment,” said the Barcelona legend. “When I’m surrounded by younger teammates given my age, I feel like a kid again. I do stupid things because I feel so comfortable. As long as I maintain this feeling and can continue to contribute to the team, I intend to be here to enjoy (the Argentina national team).”

Messi returns to Inter Miami camp ahead of the final MLS matchday of the regular season on Saturday, October 19. Miami can break the MLS single-season points record with a win over New England Revolution and reach 74 total points, with Messi the favorite to win the MVP award.

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