Sports

Peru vs Argentina Lionel Messi’s brilliant brace lifts Argentina to 2-0 World Cup qualifying win

October 18, 2023

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Peru vs Argentina Lionel, Lionel Messi was back to his best on Tuesday night as Argentina beat Peru 2-0 in World Cup qualifying. The Inter Miami star scored two brilliant goals to lead his team to victory and maintain their perfect record in the qualifiers.

Messi opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a trademark free-kick. He curled the ball over the Peru wall and into the top corner, leaving goalkeeper Pedro Gallese with no chance.

Messi doubled Argentina’s lead in the 53rd minute with a stunning solo goal. He picked up the ball in midfield and dribbled past two Peru defenders before firing a shot into the bottom corner.

The two goals were Messi’s first for Argentina since the Copa América final in July, and they were a reminder of his quality and importance to the team.

Argentina’s other players also performed well on the night, with Lautaro Martinez, Rodrigo De Paul, and Leandro Paredes all impressing. However, it was Messi who was the star of the show, and his performance was crucial in Argentina’s victory.

Argentina player ratings vs Peru:

Lionel Messi: 9.5
Lautaro Martinez: 8.5
Rodrigo De Paul: 8.0
Leandro Paredes: 7.5
Nicolas Otamendi: 7.5
Cristian Romero: 7.5
Nahuel Molina Lucero: 7.0
Marcos Acuna: 7.0
Angel Di Maria: 7.0
Giovani Lo Celso: 6.5
Julian Alvarez: 6.5

Argentina’s next World Cup qualifier is against Ecuador on November 12. They will be looking to maintain their perfect record and book their place at the 2026 World Cup as soon as possible.