Messi’s hat-trick takes Argentina to 2018 World Cup

Argentine players pose after sealing World Cup qualification.

Messi and his Argentine team-mates celebrate a goal against Ecuador.

Fans watch Ecuador-Argentina match at Quito.

Messi hugs an Argentine team-mate during their World Cup qualifier against Ecuador.

Fans react while watching Ecuador and Argentina match.

Fans watch the CONMEBOL qualifying match between Ecuador and Argentina.

Messi celebrates after scoring a goal against Ecuador in their World Cup qualifier.

Argentines celebrate even as hosts Ecuadorian players succumbed in dejection in Quito.

Messi collects the ball after scoring one of his hat-trick goals against Ecuador.