Lionel Messi has downplayed his latest World Cup record after equalling the tournament’s all-time goalscoring mark during Argentina’s impressive 3-0 victory over Algeria.
The Argentine captain delivered a sensational performance on Tuesday, scoring all three goals as the defending champions kicked off their World Cup campaign in style.
The hat-trick was particularly special as it marked Messi’s first-ever World Cup hat-trick and took his tally in the competition to 16 goals, drawing level with German legend Miroslav Klose as the joint-highest scorer in World Cup history.
Despite the historic achievement, the 38-year-old insisted he was more focused on enjoying the moment with his family, teammates and supporters than celebrating individual records.
According to Messi, sharing such moments with those closest to him is far more meaningful than personal statistics.
“It’s an honour to be there, given what it means to stand alongside Klose and the others,” Messi said after the match.
However, the Inter Miami star was quick to downplay the significance of the milestone.
“In the end, it’s just a statistic and nothing more,” he added.
Messi’s latest heroics have further strengthened Argentina’s hopes of defending their World Cup title and becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back tournaments.
The football icon also praised the unity within the Argentine squad and thanked fans for their unwavering support.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni was full of admiration for his captain, admitting he had run out of words to describe Messi’s brilliance.
“For 20 years, he’s had us used to seeing things like this,” Scaloni said.
Midfielder Alexis Mac Allister also highlighted Messi’s importance to the team, insisting the veteran remains the heartbeat of Argentina despite his age.
With another record now attached to his legendary career, Messi continues to prove why many regard him as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
Source: AFP.
