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Argentina defeated Peru 2-0 in World Cup 2026 qualifiers thanks to a brace from Ballon d'Or favourite Lionel Messi.
Lionel Messi put the disappointment of missing out on the MLS Playoffs with Inter Miami by scoring two fine first-half strikes to lead Argentina to victory against Peru.
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08:59 - 17.10.2023
Report: Lionel Messi to win 8th Ballon d'Or ahead of Haaland, Mbappe
Argentina captain Lionel Messi is reportedly set to win his 8th Ballon d'Or.
Messi's record-breaking night
In doing so, Messi surpassed good friend and ex-Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez, as the all-time leading scorer in Conmebol WC qualifiers with 30 goals.
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Despite doubts surrounding his fitness, the 36-year-old was named in the starting lineup and looked as sharp as ever.
His first goal came in the 32nd minute, finishing expertly after a fine cutback.
Just ten minutes later, the Argentine's name was up again on the scoreboard after showcasing his versatility with a left corner strike with his left foot.
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22:52 - 17.10.2023
Messi named most marketable athlete in the world with Ronaldo 27th on the list
Argentine World Cup winner Lionel Messi has been named the most marketable athlete in the world for the second time, while Ronaldo dropped to 27th place on the list
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15:54 - 13.10.2023
Lionel Messi react viciously after ex-Barcelona player 'spits' at him during Argentina’s game against Paraguay
During Argentina's match against Paraguay, Lionel Messi allegedly received a spit from former Barcelona player Antonio Sanabria, with the Inter-Miami player responding with the ideal retort.
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07:07 - 13.10.2023
Messi's crossbar challenge, Emi Martinez sets astonishing record as Argentina beat Paraguay
Argentina win their seventh consecutive game since their triumph in Qatar.
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23:30 - 10.10.2023
Ballon d'Or: Mbappe or Haaland deserves the award not Messi — Juventus star
France international Adrien Rabiot claims Lionel Messi does not deserve the Ballon d'Or over his compatriot Kylian Mbappe or treble winner Erling Haaland.
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23:30 - 09.10.2023
France coach unhappy with Argentina, other South American countries hosting 2030 World Cup
After losing the final of the 2022 World Cup to Argentina, France coach Didier Deschamps believes they, along with other South American countries should not be allowed to host matches in the 2030 edition of the tournament
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