Lionel Messi's Magical Hat-Trick Powers Argentina Past Algeria in World Cup Opener

Lionel Messi turned back the clock with a sensational hat-trick as defending champions Argentina opened their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria. The Argentine captain not only guided his side to a comfortable win but also etched his name deeper into football history by becoming the joint-highest scorer in men's World Cup history.

Messi Reaches Another Historic Milestone

Some legends age like fine wine, and Lionel Messi once again proved why many regard him as the greatest footballer of all time. The 38-year-old delivered a masterclass performance to lead Argentina to victory in Missouri, announcing his arrival at the tournament in emphatic fashion.

Messi's first-ever World Cup hat-trick took his tally to 16 goals in the competition, drawing level with German great Miroslav Klose as the joint-highest scorer in men's World Cup history. The feat also made him the oldest player ever to score a hat-trick at a FIFA World Cup, achieved just a week before his 39th birthday.

Adding to the significance of the night, Messi completed the treble exactly 20 years after scoring his first World Cup goal for Argentina during a 6-0 win over Serbia on June 16, 2006. The landmark performance came in his 200th appearance for the national team.

Stunning Strike Sets the Tone

Argentina took the lead in the 17th minute through a moment of trademark brilliance from their captain. Rodrigo De Paul spotted Messi with a quick free-kick in midfield, and the forward surged through the centre of the pitch before unleashing a powerful long-range effort.

The strike grazed the fingertips of Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane before flying into the top corner, giving Argentina the breakthrough and electrifying the crowd.

Messi doubled Argentina's advantage later in the match after a flowing attacking move. Nico Gonzalez broke down the left flank and delivered a dangerous cross into the area. The ball eventually fell to Alexis Mac Allister, whose low shot was parried by Zidane.

Messi, perfectly positioned inside the box, reacted first and tapped home the rebound to make it 2-0.

Captain Completes Masterclass With Third Goal

The Argentine icon sealed his hat-trick in the 76th minute with another moment of quality. Picking up possession near the centre circle, Messi embarked on a trademark dribble before releasing the ball to Gonzalez on the left wing.

The return pass found Messi on the edge of the penalty area, and the outcome felt inevitable. The veteran forward calmly curled a low shot into the bottom corner to complete his hat-trick and put the result beyond doubt.

The goal capped a memorable night for Messi and Argentina, who began their title defence in perfect fashion while their captain continued to rewrite football's record books.

(With inputs from ANI)