Messi masterclass: Hat-trick against Algeria marks historic World Cup milestone
Lionel Messi scored a stunning hat-trick in Argentina's 3-0 win over Algeria, becoming the first player to feature in six World Cups and equalling the all-time scoring record.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Author: Bryan Berlin
In a dominant opening performance at the 2026 World Cup, Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass, netting a hat-trick to secure a 3-0 victory for Argentina against Algeria. The 38-year-old captain silenced any doubts about his effectiveness at the top level, proving he remains the team's decisive difference-maker.
The match was significant for several historical milestones. Messi became the first player to feature in six different World Cup editions and moved level with Miroslav Klose at the top of the competition's all-time scoring chart with 16 goals.
Messi’s approach remains a tactical choice: he spends long periods walking to conserve energy, waiting for the precise moment to strike. FIFA data showed he covered just 6.81km in 80 minutes, but his off-the-ball movement and clinical finishing were instrumental. The support of teammates like Rodrigo De Paul and Alexis Mac Allister provided the necessary tactical balance to accommodate his style.
De Paul, acting as the team's engine, provided a brilliant pass to set up Messi’s opening goal, highlighting the collective effort to keep the superstar in high-impact areas.
It was a difficult game, the scoreline is a bit exaggerated because we have the 10. Rodrigo De Paul
Following the match, an emotional Messi admitted to facing some difficult days outside of football. With this performance, Argentina has reaffirmed its intent to become only the second team in history to win back-to-back World Cup titles, as Messi continues to defy age and expectations.