Lionel Messi nets a hat-trick as Argentina triumphs over Algeria 3-0 in the opening match of World Cup 2026, matching Miroslav Klose’s record with 16 goals and becoming the first player to feature in six World Cups.
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(Photo Credit : Reuters)
Lionel Messi has etched his name into World Cup history with a spectacular hat-trick, leading Argentina to a dominant 3-0 win over Algeria on Tuesday.
Messi now shares the record for the most goals in the tournament’s history, totaling 16, and tying with Miroslav Klose from Germany.
Soccer Football – FIFA World Cup 2026 – Group J – Argentina v Algeria – Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri, U.S. – June 16, 2026 Argentina’s Lionel Messi scores their third goal to complete a hat-trick IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters/Jay Biggerstaff
The debut match in Group J showcased another brilliant performance by the Argentina captain, who will turn 39 later this month and celebrated his 200th cap for his nation as he became the first athlete to participate in six World Cups.
He kickstarted his scoring with a shot from the edge of the penalty area in the 17th minute, added a second with a tap-in just after the hour, and completed his hat-trick in the 76th minute with a well-placed shot into the corner of the net.
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