Lionel Messi’s amazing goals as Argentina qualify for 2018 FIFA World Cup

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick to take Argentina to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Lionel Messi’s three goals lifted Argentina into the 2018 FIFA World Cup on the last day of South American qualifying, keeping the Albiceleste from missing out for the first time since 1970. The two-time champions — and losing finalists three years ago in Brazil — rode on Messi’s hat trick in the thin air of the Andes and rallied for a 3-1 win over Ecuador, who took a surprising lead in the first minute.

Argentina's Lionel Messi (R) celebrates with teammate Eduardo Salvio after scoring against Ecuador during their 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Quito. (AFP)

Lionel Messi is yet to win a major trophy with Argentina.