Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick against Algeria in his 27th FIFA World Cup appearance to become the joint all-time top scorer in the tournament’s history, equalling Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 goals in 24 matches.
Argentina kicked off their World Cup title defence with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Algeria in Group J, with Messi ensuring it was a day to remember for the fans.
Messi marked the 20th anniversary of his World Cup debut with a stunning hat-trick as Argentina cruised to victory. The Argentine captain had an early goal ruled out for a marginal offside call before opening the scoring in the 17th minute with a superb strike from the edge of the box. He doubled Argentina’s advantage just after the hour mark and completed his hat-trick in the 76th minute with a trademark curling finish following a neat exchange with Nico Gonzalez.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner produced a dominant display, registering six shots and creating two chances while becoming the oldest player to score a World Cup hat-trick at 38 years and 357 days old. Messi also set several milestones, including becoming the first Argentine to score in five consecutive World Cup matches and moving within one goal of the all-time World Cup scoring record.
Messi remains grounded
“I can’t ask for more than everything I’ve received, as I’ve said many times. Thank God I was given too much, and everything that comes now is to enjoy it,” Messi said after his man-of-the-match performance.
“As I’ve said many times, I don’t look at whether it’s first, second, or third. I think it’s an incredible compliment that you are told you’re one of the best in history.”
Messi added: “With all the people who play football, with all the players who have spent their whole lives in football, being able to be among the best is incredible.”
Argentina, with 10 members of their 2022 World Cup-winning squad in the starting lineup, looked every bit a title contender as Lionel Scaloni’s side continued their impressive form.
Meanwhile, the match was overshadowed by debate over the referee’s decision not to send off Messi for his challenge on Algeria’s Aïssa Mandi earlier in the game.
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