Lionel Messi claims Argentina are 'close to being the best in history' as Inter Miami superstar overtakes ex-Barcelona team-mate Luis Suarez in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying record books

Messi scored both goals as his side preserved their perfect record in qualifying. He fired in the opening goal with a fine finish after Nico Gonzalez found him inside the Peru box and then fired low into the net to double their lead.

The Argentine's scoring record in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying now stands at a record-breaking 31, as he moves ahead of Barcelona co-star Luis Suarez, who has scored 29 for Uruguay.

Lionel Scaloni's side have won all four of their matches and now sit five points above Uruguay, Brazil and Venezuela.

Messi believes the reigning world champions proved yet again that they are the best in the world and arguably close to becoming one of the greatest the game has ever seen.

"This team is incredible, every time they play they are very close to being the best in history," Messi said. "On a game level I think we have grown. After winning the World Cup we are confident, very loose, more united and firm. Hopefully we can continue to grow."

Messi's return to Inter Miami will come too late for him to feature in the first part of the MLS double-header against Charlotte, but the 36-year-old may make the team for the return fixture on Saturday.