Argentina wins big against Paraguay, Messi scores twice

Argentina has taken a big step closer to qualifying for the World Cup in Qatar after a 5-0 win over Paraguay in Asunción on Thursday.

Lionel Messi scored twice and provided two assists in a dominant display by the Albiceleste.

Argentina took the lead in the 28th minute when Messi set up Papu Gómez for a tap-in. Messi doubled the lead just before half-time with a superb free-kick.

The visitors extended their lead in the second half with three goals in the space of 15 minutes. Messi made it 3-0 with a penalty in the 58th minute, before Ángel Di María and Nicolás González added further goals.

The win moves Argentina up to second place in the CONMEBOL standings, four points behind leaders Brazil. Paraguay remains in seventh place, six points off the qualification places.

Messi was the star of the show for Argentina, scoring twice and providing two assists. The Barcelona forward now has 80 goals for his country, just one behind Pele's South American record.

Argentina will now face Uruguay in Montevideo on Sunday in their next World Cup qualifier. Paraguay will host Chile on the same day.