Lionel Messi etched his name further into FIFA World Cup history on Tuesday, scoring a hat-trick to lead Argentina to a convincing 3-0 victory over Algeria in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Argentine captain entered the match three goals behind the all-time World Cup scoring record of 16 goals, held by former German striker Miroslav Klose. By the 76th minute, Messi had found the net three times to draw level with the record and guide the defending champions to a winning start in their title defence.
The historic performance thrilled fans at Kansas City Stadium as the 39-year-old football icon once again demonstrated his enduring quality on football’s biggest stage.
Argentina controlled much of the contest, with Messi’s clinical finishing proving the difference against the Algerian side.
The hat-trick not only secured three points for Argentina but also placed Messi alongside Klose as the joint-highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history.
Argentina’s victory strengthens their position in Group J as they continue their quest to retain the World Cup title won in Qatar four years ago.
