Messi’s numbers are insane, but what really hits is how he still finds space to create chances for the guys around him. At 36 he’s not just scoring, he’s dictating tempo and pulling defenders out of shape. The hat‑trick against Bolivia was a masterclass in timing and movement, showing that age is just a number when you have that kind of football IQ. It also proves that Argentina’s game plan revolves around his vision as much as his finishing. Watching those six goals, you can see the blend of precision and instinct that few can match. It’s no wonder the fans flocked to the highlights – they’re witnessing something rare.

From a tactical standpoint, Messi’s influence extends far beyond his personal tally. His ability to drop deep and orchestrate play forces opponents to adjust their defensive shape, creating exploitable gaps for his teammates. The statistical edge-six goals and multiple assists-reflects a player who operates as both a finisher and a conduit for attack. Moreover, his consistency in high‑pressure matches underlines a mental fortitude essential for tournament success. While Uruguay’s Núñez and Colombia’s Díaz offer noteworthy contributions, Messi’s comprehensive skill set remains unrivaled in the current cycle.

Messi still writes the playbook for Argentina.

It’s fascinating how Messi’s movements not only open lanes for the forwards but also pull the whole defensive line out of shape. When he sits deep, the centre‑backs are forced to step forward, leaving space for the wingers to cut inside. This ripple effect means even when he isn’t the one touching the ball, the team’s attack looks smoother. I’ve seen clip after clip where a simple one‑touch pass from Messi sparks a quick give‑and‑go that ends in a goal. His footballing brain is still a step ahead, and that’s why Argentina feels so dangerous on paper and on the pitch.

Ah, behold the saga of Messi-a narrative woven with threads of myth and mastery. He storms the field like a comet, blazing trails of brilliance that mere mortals can scarcely comprehend. Each strike is a sonnet, each pass a stanza, crafting an epic that dwarfs the fleeting tales of his contemporaries. The Bolivia demolition was not merely a game, it was a theatrical overture, a crescendo of destiny that resonated across stadiums and screens alike. In the theater of South America, he claims the throne, not by birthright but by relentless conquest. Opponents gather, their hopes trembling like moths against his luminous aura. Yet, even as fireworks illuminate his path, the quiet hum of his legacy persists, echoing through the annals of football lore. One might say he is the alchemist, transmuting pressure into pure gold with every touch. The world watches, breath held, as the maestro conducts the symphony of the beautiful game. And when the final whistle blows, the tale remains-an ageless legend, forever etched in the heart of the sport.

Byron nailed it-Messi’s impact is almost alchemical. To add on, his positional awareness creates space for the midfielders to surge forward, which in turn improves the team's pressing shape. The way he picks out a runner with a perfectly weighted pass is something younger players should study. Statistically, his expected assists per 90 minutes have spiked, confirming that his vision isn’t just hype. Plus, the confidence he instills in his squad translates into higher conversion rates across the board. For anyone analyzing the qualifiers, his contribution goes well beyond the goal sheet.

Sure, Messi’s still scoring, but let’s not pretend the rest of the team isn’t doing the heavy lifting. Those 6‑0 margins would look a lot different if Argentina’s defense had let in a couple of goals. And while the stats are flashy, they’ll all be dust once the tournament kicks off and the real competition shows up.