In an extraordinary display of skill and talent, Lionel Messi became the all-time top scorer in South American World Cup qualifying matches as he led Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Peru in Lima.
Despite recent struggles with a muscle injury, Messi’s inclusion in the squad was pivotal. After appearing as a substitute in the 1-0 win against Paraguay, he was on the field from the start in the game against Peru.
In the 32nd minute, the 36-year-old football legend showcased his brilliance by scoring the opening goal with an outstanding shot, assisted by Nicolas Gonzalez. Just ten minutes later, Messi added another goal to his tally with a fierce finish from a pass by Enzo Fernandez.
Even though Messi was denied a hat-trick in the second half due to a VAR review disallowing his goal for offside, his two goals in the match took his total in CONMEBOL’s World Cup qualifiers to 31, surpassing Uruguay’s Luis Suarez.
Speaking about his team, Messi said, “This team is incredible, every time they play they are very close to being the best in history.” He added, “On a game level I think we have grown. After winning the World Cup, we are confident, very loose, more united and firm. Hopefully we can continue to grow.”
Coach Lionel Scaloni praised the understanding between Messi and the team, emphasizing how the players have been on the same wavelength as the football legend. Messi, who is planning to retire before the 2026 World Cup, is an integral part of the team, and Scaloni expressed his hope that Messi continues to play.
In other notable matches on Tuesday, Uruguay secured a 2-0 victory over Brazil, where Neymar had to leave the field due to a potentially serious knee injury. Venezuela outperformed Chile with a convincing 3-0 win, while Paraguay narrowly defeated Bolivia 1-0. The encounter between Ecuador and Colombia concluded in a goalless draw.
Argentina remains at the top of the CONMEBOL standings and is set to face Uruguay on November 16, followed by a clash with Brazil five days later. Peru will take on Bolivia and Venezuela in their upcoming qualifiers.
