Lionel Messi led Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Peru in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.
Messi, who plays for Inter Miami, showcased his brilliance by scoring two goals in the 32nd and 42nd minutes at Lima’s Estadio Nacional.
With these goals, Messi increased his international goal tally to 106.His first-half brace solidified Argentina’s position at the top of the South American qualifying table, having earned 12 points from four games.
They are currently five points ahead of Uruguay, Brazil, and Venezuela, all of which have accumulated seven points.
Messi was restored to the starting lineup after previously coming off the bench in a 1-0 win over Paraguay last Thursday.
Despite recent injuries limiting his appearances in Major League Soccer, the 36-year-old demonstrated his form. He netted an emphatic opener just after the half-hour mark and added a second goal ten minutes later, following excellent teamwork by Enzo Fernandez on the left flank.
This win puts Argentina in a strong position to return to the 2026 World Cup finals, which will feature 48 teams and will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
The top six teams in South America’s 10-team qualifying competition are guaranteed a spot in the finals.
