Argentina begin post-Messi era with 4-0 win over Bolivia

Argentina began life beyond Lionel Messi with a commanding 4-0 victory over Bolivia, as new captain Cristian Romero led the world champions to a comfortable win at the Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium.

With Messi nearing the end of his international career and set to play one final farewell match for Argentina, the spotlight has already begun shifting to the next generation under coach Lionel Scaloni.

Argentina dominated possession from the opening whistle and spent much of the first 10 minutes in Bolivia’s half, although they initially struggled to create clear-cut chances.

Lautaro Martinez finally broke the deadlock in the 19th minute, finishing with a low shot after a well-worked attacking move. Argentina doubled their advantage 10 minutes later when Nico Paz received a superb pass from Ezequiel Palacios, rounded the advancing goalkeeper with a delicate chip and made it 2-0 before the break.

Romero added a third eight minutes into the second half, heading home from Paz’s pinpoint corner to put Argentina firmly in control.

Scaloni then used the match to introduce several younger players, making three substitutions in the 56th minute before making another triple change in the 74th. He completed his five substitutions in the 80th minute.

Jose Lopez, one of the substitutes, added the finishing touch in the 86th minute to seal Argentina’s four-goal victory.

The result gives Argentina a strong start to the transition period as the team prepares for an era in which Messi’s role will no longer be central.