Argentina defeated Bolivia 4-0 in an international friendly at the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes in Córdoba on September 30, opening a new chapter for the national team after Lionel Messi announced his international retirement.
Lautaro Martínez, Nico Paz, Cristian Romero and José Manuel López scored as Argentina controlled the match and secured a comfortable victory.
Argentina vs Bolivia: Lautaro Martínez Opens the Scoring
Argentina took the lead in the 19th minute through Lautaro Martínez.
Alexis Mac Allister played the pass that sent Martínez through on goal, and the striker finished calmly to make it 1-0.
The goal continued Martínez's strong scoring record for Argentina and gave the hosts an early advantage.
Nico Paz Doubles Argentina's Lead
Nico Paz made it 2-0 in the 29th minute.
The young attacking midfielder added another goal before halftime as Argentina continued to control possession and create opportunities.
Argentina went into the break with a two-goal advantage.
Cristian Romero Makes It 3-0
Argentina extended their lead early in the second half when captain Cristian Romero scored in the 54th minute.
Romero headed the ball into the net from a Nico Paz free-kick to put Argentina 3-0 ahead.
José Manuel López Completes the 4-0 Win
José Manuel López completed the scoring in the 86th minute.
The forward found the net late in the match to score his first goal for Argentina and seal a 4-0 victory over Bolivia.
Argentina vs Bolivia: Final Score
Argentina: 4
Bolivia: 0
Half-time: Argentina 2-0 Bolivia
Venue: Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes, Córdoba
Competition: International Friendly
Result: Argentina won 4-0
Argentina's four goals came from Lautaro Martínez, Nico Paz, Cristian Romero and José Manuel López.
Argentina Begin Life After Messi
The match was Argentina's first since Messi announced his international retirement. Messi was not part of the team for the Bolivia friendly, while Cristian Romero wore the captain's armband.
Argentina's next scheduled international friendly in this window is against Benin, which is set to serve as Messi's farewell match for the national team.
The 4-0 victory gave Argentina a strong start to their post-World Cup international schedule, with Martínez, Paz, Romero and López all contributing goals.
