Lionel Messi topples BIG records while scoring hattrick against Bolivia, in pics

Prior to the Copa America 2021 victory, Lionel Messi had lost four major finals with Argentina's senior side. They were beaten by Germany in the 2014 World Cup final and had lost in the final at the Copa America in 2007, 2015 and 2016. (Photo: Reuters)

Lionel Messi is also his Argentina's all-time leading scorer, having moved past Gabriel Batistuta (54 goals) in 2016. He is also Argentina's most capped player, with Thursday's match against Bolivia marking his 153rd international appearance. (Photo: PTI)

Lionel Messi has 26 goals in FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, surpassing Uruguay star Luis Suarez - his former teammate at Barcelona - for most among CONMEBOL players. (Source: Twitter)

Lionel Messi has 79 international goals for Argentina, the most by a South American footballer. Messi surpassed Brazilian legend Pele, who had 77 goals. (Photo: PTI)

Argentina captain Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring against Bolivia in their FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifying match in Buenos Aires. (Source: Twitter)