Paris Saint-Germain forward Lionel Messi made history during the Argentina national team’s 2022 World Cup qualifying fixture against Bolivia.
The veteran forward notched a hat-trick in the match en route to a 3-0 win for La Albiceleste. More so, his second goal of the contest gave him 78 career international goals, which set a record for the most international goals scored by a CONMEBOL player.
PSG manager Mauricio Pochettino did not get the chance to watch the match, but he did react to Messi’s showing during a press conference on Friday.
“I wasn’t awake to watch it,” Pochettino said. “I was sleeping, but I have seen the highlights.
“It was very exciting for Argentina and everyone who loves the country. And especially our players, particularly for Leo Messi, who was desperate to win silverware and the recognition that he got last night was well deserved.”
Messi will not feature in PSG’s upcoming Ligue 1 fixture against Clermont Foot, as he just featured in the match against Bolivia.
Still, the Argentine forward is well expected to take part in PSG’s upcoming UEFA Champions League group stage opener against Club Brugge, which will surely be a match to watch.