Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continue to dominate international football, not just with their impressive overall records but with their knack for scoring hat-tricks. Both footballing legends now stand tied with ten international hat-tricks, an achievement that cements their places in the history books. As they compete for this prestigious milestone, their head-to-head rivalry remains one of the most captivating in the sport.
Lionel Messi 10th Hat-Trick: Masterclass Against Bolivia
Lionel Messi scored his 10th international hat-trick during Argentina’s 6-0 thrashing of Bolivia in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Playing at the iconic Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, Messi showcased his clinical finishing and exceptional playmaking skills. His first goal came just 19 minutes into the match, capitalising on a defensive mistake before slotting the ball past Bolivia’s goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra.
The Argentine captain added two more goals late in the game, both from perfectly executed team plays. Messi’s trademark left-footed strikes left the Bolivian goalkeeper with no chance, wrapping up yet another milestone in his illustrious career.
Messi’s journey of scoring hat-tricks for his country began on 29 February 2012, with his first treble coming in a friendly against Switzerland.
Not long after, he netted three goals in a dramatic 4-3 win over Brazil in New Jersey. His other memorable hat-tricks include one against Ecuador during the 2018 World Cup qualifiers and five goals against Estonia in a 2022 friendly.
Cristiano Ronaldo: Portugal’s Hat-Trick King
Cristiano Ronaldo has also recorded 10 international hat-tricks for Portugal. His first came in 2013 during a World Cup qualifier against Northern Ireland. That same year, Ronaldo’s hat-trick in a play-off match against Sweden secured Portugal’s spot in the 2014 World Cup. His prowess in front of goal continued, with multiple treble performances against nations like Armenia, Andorra, and Lithuania.
One of Ronaldo’s most memorable hat-tricks came at the 2018 World Cup, where he single-handedly salvaged a 3-3 draw against Spain in the group stage. His performance was highlighted by a stunning free-kick in the dying minutes, a moment etched in World Cup history.
Messi vs Ronaldo: A Rivalry Defined by Excellence
The battle for the most international hat-tricks is just one chapter in the ongoing rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo. Both have redefined what it means to be an elite footballer, consistently pushing each other to new heights. Whether through Messi’s finesse or Ronaldo’s power and precision, fans around the world have been treated to countless unforgettable moments from these two titans of the game.
As they continue to add to their remarkable careers, it remains to be seen who will ultimately finish on top in the race for the most international hat-tricks. Regardless, Messi and Ronaldo have already solidified their legacies as two of the greatest footballers in history.
