Lionel Messi delivered a historic performance as Argentina opened their World Cup campaign with a convincing 3-0 victory over Algeria, matching a major tournament record in the process.
The 38-year-old forward scored a hat-trick in Kansas City, drawing level with former Germany striker Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals. The achievement came exactly 20 years after Messi made his World Cup debut, underlining the remarkable longevity of one of football’s greatest players.
There had been concerns over Messi’s fitness heading into the tournament after he dealt with a minor hamstring issue during his time with Inter Miami, but any doubts were quickly put to rest. The Argentina captain opened the scoring in the early stages before adding two more goals to seal a comfortable victory for the reigning world champions.
An emotional Messi was visibly moved after finding the net for the first time, wiping tears from his face during the celebrations.
After the match, he explained: “My tears after the first goal? I’ve had some tough days. It wasn’t related to football. And those feelings were because of that.”
He added: “I thank my teammates, the coaching staff and the delegation for helping me.”
Lionel Messi. Christian Bertrand, Shutterstock
Messi’s first goal arrived following a clever pass from international teammate Rodrigo De Paul. He doubled Argentina’s advantage shortly after the break by reacting quickest to a rebound before completing his hat-trick with a clinical finish late in the game. The veteran forward received a standing ovation from the crowd when he was substituted.
The hat-trick was the 61st of Messi’s professional career, his 11th for Argentina, and notably his first at a World Cup. It also extended his scoring streak to five consecutive World Cup matches.
Reflecting on his journey with the national team, Messi said: “It makes me very happy to have lived through everything that came my way. What I’m living through now is the cherry on top.”
He continued: “I’m very happy and grateful for this wonderful group. I enjoy it so much.”
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni was full of praise for his captain after another memorable display.
“At a loss for words about Leo. What can I say?” Scaloni said. “He’s incredible.”
The night carried extra significance as it marked the anniversary of Messi’s first World Cup appearance in 2006, when he also scored after coming on against Serbia and Montenegro.
Two decades later, he remains at the heart of Argentina’s ambitions.
Messi’s appearance against Algeria was also his 200th international match for Argentina. Only Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal and Bader Al-Mutawa of Kuwait have made more appearances at senior international level.
The Argentine superstar is now just one goal away from becoming the outright leading scorer in World Cup history, a record that once seemed untouchable.
Given his form and Argentina’s status as one of the favourites for the tournament, many expect that milestone to arrive sooner rather than later.
Lionel Messi. Victor Velter, Shutterstock
His display also overshadowed impressive performances elsewhere on the opening day. Kylian Mbappé scored twice in France’s victory over Senegal, while Erling Haaland netted a brace as Norway defeated Iraq.
Haaland even took to social media during Argentina’s match to share his admiration, writing: “Messi is a madman.”
Thousands of Argentina supporters packed into the stadium in Kansas City, many wearing Messi’s famous number 10 shirt. The atmosphere reflected the enduring appeal of a player who has captivated football fans for more than two decades.
For teammate De Paul, Messi’s influence extends well beyond his goals.
“It’s an advantage to have Leo because of how he handles the group and pushes it forward. Because of who he is,” he said. “He doesn’t care about individual records. He prioritises the group, and for us it’s incredible.”
As Argentina begin their quest to retain the World Cup, their captain has once again shown why he remains one of the defining figures in world football. With history now within touching distance, Messi’s remarkable World Cup story appears far from finished.
