Lionel Messi breaks a new record

The Argentina captain put fears over his fitness aside to break a new record in the World Cup qualifier against Peru.

Lionel Messi clinched a new milestone by netting both goals in Argentina’s triumphant 2-0 victory over Peru in a World Cup qualifier.

Messi’s stellar performance on Tuesday marked his return to the starting lineup after a four-week hiatus due to a muscle issue.

In this high-stakes match, Messi’s goals propelled him to the summit of CONMEBOL’s all-time leading scorers in World Cup qualifiers, boasting an impressive tally of 31 goals. This feat untangled a tie with his former Barcelona comrade, Luis Suarez of Uruguay.

As a result, Argentina maintain their stronghold at the summit of the CONMEBOL standings. The world champions sit five points clear of second-placed Uruguay. They’re the only team to have won all four of their fixtures.

Argentina will next face off with Uruguay on November 16, followed by a clash against Brazil five days later.

Messi has broken another record.

(No matter when you read this)#ArgentinaNT pic.twitter.com/u5rUri1uLb

— Selección Argentina in English (@AFASeleccionEN) October 18, 2023