Argentina Player ratings vs Bolivia : Messi Magic Stole the show World cup qualifiers 2026

Argentina Player Ratings vs Bolivia: Messi’s Hat-trick and Masterclass Leads to 6-0 Victory in World Cup Qualifier

Argentina Player Ratings

Goalkeeper & Defence

• Geronimo Rulli (7/10):
  A relatively quiet evening for the Argentine shot-stopper. Although not heavily tested by Bolivia, Rulli showed leadership and was solid when called upon. His distribution from the back also contributed to Argentina’s attacking momentum.
• Nahuel Molina (8/10):
  Controlled the right side with authority, delivering a standout performance. His pinpoint cross to assist Almada’s goal was a clear highlight. Molina’s ability to defend and contribute to the attack proved invaluable.
• Cristian Romero (7/10):
  Calm and composed at the back, Romero carried the ball forward effectively. His aggressive yet controlled style helped neutralize Bolivia’s sporadic counter-attacks, ensuring a stable defense for Argentina.
• Nicolas Otamendi (7/10):
  A consistent performer, Otamendi came close to adding his name to the scoresheet but was denied by VAR. His leadership and dominance in aerial duels made him a crucial part of Argentina’s defensive solidity.
• Nicolas Tagliafico (7/10):
  Patrolled the left flank efficiently, contributing both offensively and defensively. His experience allowed Argentina to maintain balance and control as they pushed forward throughout the game.

Midfield

• Rodrigo De Paul (8/10):
  De Paul’s physicality and ability to win duels in midfield set the tone for Argentina’s aggressive pressing. His tireless work rate, combined with his vision in possession, allowed Argentina to maintain dominance in the middle of the park.
• Enzo Fernandez (8/10):
  Fernandez ran the game from midfield with his sharp passing and composure. He was involved in numerous build-up plays and was unlucky not to register an assist after setting up Otamendi’s disallowed goal. His vision and intelligence in breaking lines were key to Argentina’s relentless attacks.
• Alexis Mac Allister (7/10):
  Substituted early in the second half, Mac Allister put in a disciplined performance, offering support both in defense and attack. While he didn’t stand out as much as his teammates, he ensured Argentina’s midfield stayed balanced.

Attack

• Julian Alvarez (8/10):
  Alvarez was a menace on the left wing, constantly drifting inside to link up with Messi and Lautaro Martinez. His goal, Argentina’s third of the night, came after a clever free-kick routine involving Messi, demonstrating his poise and clinical finishing.
• Lautaro Martinez (8/10):
  The Inter Milan striker showed his predatory instincts by scoring a tap-in, set up beautifully by Messi. Lautaro’s movements off the ball were intelligent, and he provided a constant goal threat, troubling Bolivia’s defense throughout the game.
• Lionel Messi (10/10):
  Man of the Match. What more can be said about Lionel Messi? He was involved in five of Argentina’s six goals, scoring a hat-trick and providing two assists. His ability to dictate the game, combined with his clinical finishing and vision, made this a vintage Messi performance. The GOAT once again proved why he’s considered the best in the world.

Subs & Manager

• Thiago Almada (9/10):
  Coming off the bench, Almada made an instant impact. His perfectly timed run and composed finish added to Argentina’s tally, demonstrating why he’s one of Argentina’s most promising young players.
• Leandro Paredes (7/10):
  Brought energy and physicality to midfield after being introduced. He helped maintain Argentina’s control of the game as Bolivia looked increasingly outclassed.
• Exequiel Palacios (8/10):
  Provided the assist for Messi’s fifth goal, playing his role perfectly. His quick thinking and ability to find space ensured Argentina kept their intensity high even after several substitutions.
• Nico Paz (8/10):
  The young talent marked his appearance with a beautiful assist for Messi’s third goal. His link-up play with Messi will surely have fans excited about his potential for Argentina’s future.
• Lisandro Martinez (N/A):
  A late substitute who shored up the defense, Martinez helped see the game out as Bolivia never threatened a comeback.
• Lionel Scaloni (10/10):
  The Argentina coach got his tactics spot-on, with every player executing their roles to perfection. His substitutions were impactful, and Scaloni’s decision to play an aggressive, attacking game overwhelmed Bolivia from the start. Argentina’s fluid style under his guidance continues to impress.

Key Takeaways from Argentina vs Bolivia

1. Messi’s Timeless Brilliance:
   Lionel Messi continues to amaze with his outstanding performances. His hat-trick and assists showed why he’s still at the top of world football, and why Argentina are serious contenders in World Cup Qualifying.
2. Argentina’s Attacking Depth:
   The combination of Messi, Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez, and Almada proved to be too much for Bolivia to handle. Argentina’s offensive fluidity is a key reason for their success in recent years.
3. Bolivia Outclassed:
   Bolivia had little answer to Argentina’s relentless attack. While they managed a few counter-attacks, they were unable to cope with the pace and skill of their opponents.
4. Argentina’s Defensive Solidity:
   Rulli, Romero, and Otamendi ensured that Argentina remained strong at the back, despite their attacking focus. Bolivia’s chances were few and far between, thanks to the solid Argentine backline.
5. Scaloni’s Tactical Mastery:
   Lionel Scaloni has created a balanced team with both defensive solidity and attacking flair. His ability to integrate young players like Almada and Nico Paz alongside veterans like Messi has made Argentina a well-rounded and formidable force.

Conclusion: Messi Leads Argentina to Crushing Victory

Lionel Messi’s hat-trick and two assists highlighted an outstanding 6-0 victory for Argentina over Bolivia. With contributions from Lautaro Martinez, Julian Alvarez, and a brilliant team display orchestrated by Lionel Scaloni, Argentina looks unstoppable in World Cup Qualifying.

As they continue to dominate, Argentina’s blend of youth and experience could make them favorites for future tournaments, with Messi still at the heart of their success.

🤯🇦🇷 Leo Messi with an hat-trick for Argentina tonight… making it 846 career goals!

He’s been involved in 5 goals tonight. Three goals and two assists. pic.twitter.com/KmQVETfz1E

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 16, 2024

FAQs:

1. How did Lionel Messi perform vs Bolivia?
   Lionel Messi was the star of the show, scoring a hat-trick and providing two assists in Argentina’s 6-0 victory over Bolivia.
2. Who scored for Argentina against Bolivia?
   Lionel Messi (3 goals), Lautaro Martinez, Julian Alvarez, and Thiago Almada all scored for Argentina.
3. What was the final score of Argentina vs Bolivia?
   Argentina won the match 6-0 against Bolivia in World Cup Qualifying.
4. How did Argentina’s defense perform vs Bolivia?
   Argentina’s defense, led by Cristian Romero and Nicolas Otamendi, kept Bolivia at bay, contributing to a comfortable clean sheet.
5. What role did Lionel Scaloni play in Argentina’s win over Bolivia?
   Lionel Scaloni’s tactics were spot on, with a full-strength XI and impactful substitutions that led to Argentina’s dominant 6-0 win.

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