Lionel Messi added another remarkable chapter to his international career by scoring all three goals in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The reigning world champions opened their tournament in impressive fashion, but the night belonged to their captain. Messi’s hat-trick not only secured three points for Argentina, it also placed him alongside Germany great Miroslav Klose as the highest scorer in men’s World Cup history with 16 goals.
The achievement carried extra significance given the occasion. The match marked Messi’s 200th appearance for Argentina and his record-setting sixth World Cup. Two decades after scoring his first goal on football’s biggest stage, he once again found himself at the center of the tournament spotlight.
Argentina controlled much of the contest, with Messi providing the decisive finishing touch throughout the evening. His movement, creativity, and relentless work rate demonstrated why he remains a vital figure for the defending champions despite being 38 years old.
Questions surrounding his fitness had surfaced earlier this month after a muscle strain, but those concerns quickly faded as Messi delivered one of the most memorable performances of the tournament’s opening week. The hat-trick also made him the oldest player to achieve the feat in World Cup history.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni praised his captain’s influence, while teammates pointed to the leadership and confidence he continues to bring to the squad. The result gives Argentina an ideal start to its title defense and reinforces its status as one of the favorites to contend deep into the competition.
For Messi, the night represented far more than another personal milestone. It was a reminder that even after a career filled with trophies, records, and unforgettable moments, he remains capable of producing performances that capture the imagination of football fans around the world.
Photo Credit: Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com
