The Barcelona playmaker scored two goals as Argentina finished the group stage on a high note.
Lionel Messi enjoyed yet another fine day in the office as Argentina defeated Bolivia 4-1 in their final group game of Copa America 2021.
Despite the speculations that the Barcelona star would be rested for the game in order to be a match fit for the quarter-finals, Lionel Scaloni fielded him in the attack alongside Sergio Aguero.
The impact of Messi was seen straight away as he set up the goal for fellow attacker Papu Gomez.
The Blaugrana ace doubled the lead for Argentina around the half-hour mark from the penalty spot before he added another goal right before the halftime whistle, as he chipped the ball over the goalkeeper’s head after Aguero found him.
Bolivia pulled one back at the hour mark, but La Albeciliste put the game to bed by scoring the fourth goal of the night. Lautaro Martinez was the scorer this time, and he would be finally relieved to find the back of the nets for the time in Copa America.
The comprehensive win extended their run as Group A leaders, and now they await Ecuador in the quarter-finals.
Messi looks to be in unstoppable form, and after the display against Ecuador, he currently leads the goals and assists chart(3 goals and 2 assists).
Another milestone he achieved during the process was becoming Argentina’s record cap holder – 148 caps, surpassing Javier Mascherano.
Aguero also shone on his 100th cap for La Albiceleste, setting up the goal for Messi.
