Photos: Lionel Messi breaks Pele's South American goal record

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in Argentina's World Cup qualifier 3-0 win.

Messi became the top international goal scorer in South American history with a hat-trick in Argentina's World Cup qualifier on Thursday, overtaking Brazil's Pele. 

The 34-year-old netted all the goals at Argentina's 3-0 win against Bolivia in World Cup qualifying, and now has 79 for the national team. 

Messi recorded his tally in 153 caps for Argentina, while Pele netted his 77 in 92 official matches for Brazil. Messi couldn't hold back his tears as he celebrated Argentina's Copa America win after the game.

Video of the day. Leo Messi crying tears of joy after finally celebrating Copa America with Argentinian people. 🇦🇷🏆 #Messi

…and yes, it’s even more beautiful than his great hattrick scored tonight, becoming best South American scorer in history.pic.twitter.com/28Hbl7LBEZ

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 10, 2021