Lionel Messi leads the 2026 South American World Cup qualifiers with six goals.
Messi is at the top of scoring charts in South America. The Argentine scored three goals in Argentina’s 6-0 win vs. Bolivia and now has six goals in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the most in South America.
With his six goals, he surpasses Darwin Núñez of Uruguay who has five goals and Luis Díaz of Colombia who has four goals. The rest of the top 10 is tied on three goals each, including Nicolás Otamendi of Argentina.
These could be my last games’ – Messi determined to enjoy Argentina swansong, Still not decided about the WC?
Is there any uncalled for record or persecutions we fans had endured that Scaloni failed to reverse or offset it?
02 consequative copa losses, Maradona’s abysmally conceding 06 vs Bolivia, Finallissima (Fifa confederation loss vs Brazil), and of course WC trophy. And yet some key board coaches are not happy about him.
Even Messi’s last 02 Balond’ors are highly linked to his performance at NT level-copa 21 and Quatar22. I don’t remember a single balond’or winner to claim 02 Balond’ors excelling at NT achievements. Sabella had an edge in maximizing Messi talent at NT till Scloni emerged. Let’ give credit when it is due to the most underrated coach. Finally only dumpasses possess the audacity to question Leo-The GOAT of football.
Watching Paz play brings back memories of Zidane in his prime. His effortless yet graceful touches, exceptional ball control, and dribbling skills are reminiscent of the legend. He’s daring in his playmaking and passes. With the right support, this guy can surely unlock any defense. We’ve got a true gem for the future !
I think he plays more like kaka. Next big talent for Argentina. He should be regular in NT along with Garnacho and Carboni
More like left footed prime Pastore, Kakà was a speedster, Paz speed is ok but not super fast. U15 ex Boca/Juventus playmaker Francisco Barido seems the exact same player as Nico Paz. youtu.be/qOHzJUVqb8A?si=MTiXcXr1MMEHPnBp
Messi answered all those who was just not criticizing but simply hating on him recently even in this forum. It’s so dissapointing to see such criticism even after giving so much to Argentina football.
Couldn’t agree more…
It’s very painful when someone person purposely hating messi in this site…
I think we have talented players in each position. Only we need a world class winger who can replace Di maria. Even I would not be surprised if di maria breaks his retirement and come back.
I think Paz sealed his spot
Did you see how Argentina played? I liked the way the players actively ran into the penalty area to look for scoring opportunities.
Exactly the way they crushed Chile. However, this pressing display was missing against Colombia and Venezuela. Anyway, conditions were abysmal in Venezuela. Hope the team continues with this form in November.
Yes the conditions were abysmal also in Baranquilla too!
Also the refereeing in Barranquilla was horrible. Ota did not commit any foul. Still I feel, we did not play aggressive enough against Colombia.
The crucial difference in today’s match (and every match Argentina dominate) – not to go into a shell with 6 defenders, but keep attacking.