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Inter Miami's Noah Allen has heaped praise on Lionel Messi following his hattrick for Argentina in the 6-0 win over Bolivia this week. The 37-year-old also set up two more goal in a Player-of-the-Match performance in the South American qualifiers for 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner started the scoring in the 19th minute with a fine finish. He then teed up Lautaro Martinez for the second in an incredible display of selflessness in the 43rd minute.
In the third minute of extra time, the Inter Miami man assisted Julian Alvarez, who made it 3-0 for La Albiceleste. Thiago Almada got on the scoresheet in the 69th, before Lionel Messi took matter into his own hands at El Monumental.
The six-time European Golden Shoe winner scored two quickfire goals in two minutes late in the game to complete his hattrick. He now has 112 goals for Argentina, the second most in men's international football behind Cristiano Ronaldo (133).
Speaking to reporter Jose Armando, Noah Allen insisted Lionel Messi gave the world a stark reminded of his qualities.
“Incredible. It’s clear that (Messi) can still do it. I know a lot of people think it was against Bolivia, but that is a very difficult team,” said Allen.
Bolivia arrived at the game in impressive form, registering three wins in a row against Venezuela, Chile and Colombia. However, they were blow away by the brilliance of one of the greatest players in the history of the beautiful game.
How has Lionel Messi fared for Inter Miami this season?
Lionel Messi arrived in Florida in the summer of 2023, joining Inter Miami after the expiry of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The Argentinean wasted little time to acclimatize himself with the rigours of MLS and helped the Heron win the Leagues Cup in his debut campaign.
This season, the former Barcelona man has taken his game to a higher level. He has registered 19 goals and 12 assists from 21 games across competitions for Inter Miami.
The Argentinean's efforts have helped the club finish at the top of the MLS Eastern Conference table and secure the Supporters' Shield. Messi is now preparing for the playoffs for the MLS Cup.
The 37-year-old has also been decisive for La Albiceleste this year, helping them win the Copa America over the summer. Messi has registered 25 goals and 16 assists from 30 games for club and country so far in 2024.
