Argentina thrash Bolivia 4-0 in first match without Messi

Argentina began a new chapter following Lionel Messi’s international retirement with a convincing 4-0 victory over Bolivia in an international friendly at the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes in Córdoba on Wednesday.

With Messi absent, Lionel Scaloni’s side delivered a commanding performance, with Lautaro Martínez, Nico Paz, Cristian Romero and José Manuel López all finding the net.

The match marked Argentina’s first outing since their defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final and came after Messi announced his retirement from international football. citeturn489567news2turn489567search10

Martínez and Paz put Argentina in control

Argentina took the lead in the 19th minute when Alexis Mac Allister played a precise pass through to Martínez, who finished calmly past Bolivia goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra.

Nico Paz doubled the advantage in the 29th minute, lifting the ball over Viscarra after being set up by Exequiel Palacios.

Argentina carried their two-goal lead into half-time after controlling much of the first half. citeturn489567news3turn489567news4

Romero and López complete the rout

Cristian Romero made it 3-0 in the 54th minute, heading home a free-kick delivered by Paz.

Substitute José Manuel López added the fourth in the 86th minute, scoring his first international goal to cap an emphatic display by the reigning world champions. citeturn489567news2turn489567news3

Argentina limited Bolivia to three attempts, none of which were on target, while registering 18 shots of their own. citeturn489567news2

Scaloni looks to the future

The result offered Argentina an encouraging start to life without their long-time captain, although coach Scaloni acknowledged that Messi’s contribution cannot simply be replaced.

The team’s performance featured contributions from established players and emerging talents, with Paz particularly influential after scoring once and providing the assist for Romero.

Argentina’s international programme continues with further friendlies during the FIFA window, including a planned farewell appearance for Messi against Benin on 6 October. citeturn489567search11turn489567news13

For Argentina, the 4-0 win provided a positive opening to a new phase, with the team seeking to maintain its established identity while giving other players greater responsibility.