Messi scored two goals and played all 93 minutes to spark Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Peru in their 2026 World Cup qualifying match at Estadio Nacional de Lima in Lima, Peru on Tuesday night.
Messi appeared sharp and back in shape, playing from start to finish and scoring for the first time since a right leg injury with Argentina on Sept. 7 hampered him for much of the last six weeks with MLS side Inter Miami.
Messi was so aggressive and nimble at one point, he made a Peruvian defender fall down twice while dribbling back and forth on the goal line before crossing midfield. He picked his spots wisely on his two goals scored in the first half, trailing his teammates on both plays before striking with open shots toward the net.
This was Messi's first start since a 4-0 win over Toronto FC on Sept. 20 that contributed to a four-game spell on the injury list due to lingering muscle fatigue.
Messi returned for an appearance off the bench in Miami's 1-0 defeat to FC Cincinnati on Oct. 7, a result that ensured Miami can't qualify for the Audi 2023 MLS Playoffs.
Instead of claiming his usual start, Messi came off the bench as he continues to build fitness from a recent injury. La Pulga entered the game in the 53rd minute and helped Argentina see out the win, though not much clicked for him from an individual stand point.
But his health will obviously be key for La Albiceleste to maintain their current form, as Messi remains an integral component to Lionel Scaloni's system.
Messi trailed down the middle of the box, and was delivered a pass on a golden platter from Nicolás González for his first goal. His left boot connected to top right corner of the net in the 32nd minute, and he leaped over a fallen Peruvian defender to begin celebrating with his teammates.
Ten minutes later, Messi had a brace as Enzo Fernández’s pass found him in position for left boot into the lower, left corner of the net in the 42nd minute.
When the second half began, Messi remained aggressive seeking a hat trick. But at least three opportunities, including a free kick in the 88th minute, did not produce the same highlight results for the 2022 World Cup champion and seven-time Ballon d'Or winner.
As Miami's 2023 season winds down, more awaits Messi. The 36-year-old is up for a possible eighth Ballon d'Or Award at month's end, is expected to see more action with Argentina during the November international window and may feature for the Herons during their upcoming tour of China.
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