Lionel Messi misses Argentina’s 3-0 win against Bolivia as World Champions record back-to-back wins

Argentina beat Bolivia 3-0 on September 12 during the second match of the qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup, despite legendary player Lionel Messi’s absence. Notably, his absence gave his side a thrilling opportunity to win the match single-handedly. In addition, Messi’s absence has definitely encouraged and motivated the team to win games. Meanwhile, the 36-year-old star’s absence disappointed a plethora of players, including millions of fans who were all eager to welcome him during the play.

Meanwhile, speaking about the game, Argentina dominated the match right away with two goals, maintained its momentum in the second half of the game, and added a third goal shortly before the final whistle. Notably, it somehow made things easier for the Argentinians when Roberto Fernández of Bolivia received a red card in the 39th minute of the play.

Argentina holds six points after its first two matches following its victory in La Paz

Later, after Di Mara sent the ball low from the right side in the 31st minute of the play, Enzo Fernández opened the gap from close range. The veteran striker assisted on the second goal as well. Meanwhile, in the 42nd minute, he lifted the ball from a free kick into the penalty area, setting up Nicolas Tagliafico to score the goal with his shoulder.

Talking about the points, after an emphatic win, Argentina currently holds six points after its first two matches following its victory in La Paz. Meanwhile, Brazil also defeated Peru 1-0 to draw even with Argentina at the top of the South American standings in the recent point table. During the previous game, which was staged on September 7, Chile held Colombia to a 0-0 tie, and Ecuador defeated Uruguay 2-1.

It should be noted that FIFA eliminated three points for defender Byron Castillo’s fake birth certificate; the end result allowed Ecuador to make up what was lost in the standings.