Lionel Messi delivered another unforgettable performance on the biggest stage, scoring a remarkable hat trick as Argentina opened their World Cup campaign with a convincing victory over Algeria in Kansas City.
The reigning champions began their quest for back to back World Cup titles in impressive fashion, thanks largely to the brilliance of their captain. In his 200th international appearance, Messi reached yet another historic milestone by taking his World Cup tally to 16 goals, drawing level with German legend Miroslav Klose as the competition’s highest scorer.
Argentina controlled large spells of the contest but faced a determined Algerian side that refused to make things easy. The South Americans eventually found the breakthrough in the 17th minute when Messi received a pass from Rodrigo De Paul before curling a superb effort beyond goalkeeper Luca Zidane.
The opening stages were packed with action. Both teams had goals ruled out during a lively start, highlighting the attacking intent on display from the first whistle. Messi also survived a nervy moment midway through the opening half after a reckless challenge on Aissa Mandi escaped further punishment.
After leading by a single goal at the break, Argentina increased the pressure in the second half. Messi doubled the advantage just after the hour mark, capitalising on a costly error from Zidane to slot home from close range.
The Inter Miami star then completed his first ever World Cup hat trick in the 76th minute. Collecting possession near the edge of the penalty area, he unleashed a powerful finish that left the goalkeeper with no chance and sealed an emphatic victory for Lionel Scaloni’s side.
The performance added another chapter to Messi’s extraordinary international career. Just days before his 39th birthday, he became the first footballer to feature in six World Cups and also set a new mark as the oldest player to score a World Cup hat trick.
Questions had been raised about his decision to continue playing internationally after guiding Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022. Against Algeria, he provided the perfect response, showing he remains capable of deciding matches at the highest level.
Argentina now turn their attention to a Group J clash against Austria, where Messi will have the opportunity to move clear of Klose and become the outright leading scorer in World Cup history.
