Lionel Messi achieved his 10th international hat trick, bringing his career total to 112 goals, while also providing two assists to propel Argentina to a 6-0 victory over Bolivia in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.

Having missed two qualifiers in October due to a right ankle injury sustained during the Copa America, Messi played the full match in front of enthusiastic supporters at Estadio Monumental, who celebrated his opening goal in the 19th minute with chants of his name.

He scored again in the 84th and 86th minutes. At 37 years old, Messi ranks second on the all-time scoring list, trailing Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, who has 133 goals.

Brazil, under pressure with coach Dorival Júnio, found some relief with a strong 4-0 home victory against Peru.

Argentina currently leads the South American qualifying standings with 22 points from 10 matches, three points ahead of second-placed Colombia, which defeated Chile 4-0. Uruguay, which played to a goalless draw with Ecuador, and Brazil both have 16 points, with Uruguay in third place based on goal difference.

Ecuador and Paraguay are next, each with 13 points, with Ecuador in fifth place on goal difference.

The top six teams will earn automatic spots in the 2026 World Cup, while the seventh-placed team, currently Bolivia, will enter an international playoff for a chance to qualify.

Two additional rounds are scheduled for November.

Messi showcased impressive form upon his return. His first goal resulted from a Bolivian defender's error, allowing him to break free and score without challenge against goalkeeper Billy Viscarra. He assisted Lautaro Martínez's goal in the 43rd minute and provided a crucial pass for Julián Álvarez's goal in the third minute of first-half stoppage time.

Thiago Almada scored in the 69th minute following a low cross from Nahuel Molina, before Messi capped off the scoring with a precise finish from the edge of the area.

“We enjoyed this, we are happy to be here playing in Argentina,” said Messi, who once again refused to say whether he will play in the next World Cup in 2026. “This could be one of the last (matches in front of the Argentinian crowd).”

Bolivia is aiming to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in three decades and currently holds 12 points in the standings.

Brazil Returns Under Júnior  

This month's South American qualifying matches were crucial for coach Dorival Júnior. After being eliminated in the quarterfinals of the recent Copa America, his team faced challenges against opponents they traditionally dominated, such as Paraguay and Venezuela.

Júnior's prospects appeared dim in upcoming matches against Chile and Peru, particularly due to injuries sidelining key players like goalkeeper Alisson, defender Éder Militão, and striker Vinicius Júnior. However, a dramatic last-minute victory over Chile and a strong performance against Peru have provided some much-needed optimism for the Brazil coach.

Raphinha converted two penalties to give Brazil the lead in Brasilia, scoring first in the 38th minute and again in the 54th. 

Substitute Andreas Pereira thrilled over 60,000 fans at the National Stadium with a stunning volley in the 71st minute. Another substitute, Luiz Henrique, continued his scoring streak for the national team with a well-placed shot from the edge of the box, marking his second consecutive goal.

Chile's defeat against Colombia has put coach Ricardo Gareca's position in jeopardy. Goals from Davinson Sánchez, Luis Díaz, Jhon Durán, and Luis Sinistierra secured the victory for Colombia. Currently, Chile occupies the bottom spot in the qualifying group, having accumulated only five points.

In another match, Paraguay triumphed over Venezuela with a score of 2-1, advancing into a qualifying position. Jon Aramburo initially put the visitors ahead in the 25th minute, but Antonio Sarabia, who came off the bench, turned the game around for the hosts with two goals in the 59th and 74th minutes.