Lionel Messi delivered another unforgettable performance on the world stage, scoring a brilliant hat-trick as Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The victory not only gave the defending champions a perfect start to their campaign but also saw Messi equal Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup goals record of 16 goals.
The Argentine captain continued to rewrite football history on a memorable night in Kansas City. Before kick-off, Messi became the first player ever to feature in six FIFA World Cup tournaments while also making his 200th appearance for Argentina.
The 38-year-old marked the historic occasion in style by producing a masterclass performance that left fans in awe.
Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a superb long-range strike that curled beyond goalkeeper Luca Zidane.
After controlling much of the game, Argentina doubled their lead in the second half when Messi reacted quickest to a rebound and calmly slotted the ball into the net.
The football legend then completed his first-ever World Cup hat-trick in the 76th minute after being set up by Nico Gonzalez, sending thousands of Argentine supporters inside the stadium into celebration.
The three goals moved Messi level with German great Miroslav Klose as the joint-highest scorer in World Cup history.
Speaking after the match, the Inter Miami star expressed his happiness at sharing the special moment with his family, teammates, and supporters.
“To enjoy this with my family, with my teammates, the ones who are always there, is a really beautiful moment,” Messi said.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni was full of praise for his captain, admitting he had run out of words to describe the veteran forward.
“I don’t have the words to describe Messi. For 20 years, he’s had us used to seeing things like this, and he inspires everyone who watches him play,” Scaloni said.
Argentina are aiming to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup title, and Messi’s performance has further boosted hopes of another historic triumph.
Source: AFP.
