In a high-stakes FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match, Argentine captain Lionel Messi led his team to a resounding 5-0 win against Paraguay in Asuncion. The star striker scored a hat-trick, with the other two goals coming from teammates Lautaro Martinez and Alejandro Gomez. With this victory, Argentina moves closer to securing a spot in the World Cup finals while Paraguay suffers a setback in its qualification journey.
Argentina's Resounding World Cup Qualifier Victory: Messi's Hat-Trick Lifts Team
In a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match, Argentina national football team secured a dominant 5-0 victory against Paraguay in Asuncion. Led by their talismanic captain Lionel Messi, the South American giants made a bold statement in their pursuit of World Cup qualification.
Messi, known for his exceptional skills and leadership, stole the show with a stunning hat-trick. His goals, along with strikes from Lautaro Martinez and Alejandro Gomez, powered Argentina to a convincing win. This victory puts Argentina in a strong position in the standings, while Paraguay's qualification hopes have suffered a setback.
Background:
Argentina, a two-time World Cup champion, has a rich history in the tournament. Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, has been the cornerstone of the team's recent success. He has captained Argentina to a Copa America title in 2021 and was instrumental in their run to the 2022 World Cup final.
Paraguay, on the other hand, has not qualified for the World Cup since 2010. They have a respectable history in the competition, having reached the quarterfinals in 1986 and 2010. However, they have struggled in recent years, failing to make it out of the group stage in the 2018 World Cup.
Top 5 FAQs:
Messi scored a hat-trick, bringing his total international goals to 98.
Lautaro Martinez and Alejandro Gomez scored the other two goals for Argentina.
Argentina has a strong record in World Cup qualifiers, having won 10 of their last 12 matches.
Paraguay has struggled in recent World Cup qualifiers, winning only 2 of their last 10 matches.
Argentina's next World Cup qualifier match is scheduled for March 28, 2023, against Brazil.
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