Messi claims new record as Argentina beat Peru

Lionel Messi scored two goals as Argentina extended their perfect start to South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup on Wednesday morning (Bangladesh time) with a 2-0 victory over Peru in Lima.

Messi put the world champion ahead in the 32nd minute with a superb shot after an assist from Nicolas Gonzalez, and made it 2-0 10 minutes later with a fierce finish from Enzo Fernandez’s pass. Messi, who was denied a hat-trick in the second half when he had a goal disallowed for offside following a VAR review, became CONMEBOL's leading scorer in World Cup qualifiers with his double taking his tally to 31, breaking a tie with Uruguay's Luis Suarez.

"This team is incredible, every time they play they are very close to being the best in history," Messi said.

"On a game level, I think we have grown. After winning the World Cup we are confident, more united and firm. Hopefully, we can continue to grow," he added.

Argentina, who remain top of the CONMEBOL standings, will host Uruguay on November 16.