Argentine superstar Lionel Messi delivered a stunning hat-trick on Tuesday as Argentina defeated Algeria 3–0 in a 2026 FIFA World Cup clash, with the veteran forward equalling the tournament’s all-time scoring record.
The match, played in Kansas City, saw the Inter Miami forward take his World Cup goal tally to 16, drawing level with former Germany striker Miroslav Klose, the current joint record holder.
Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute, before adding two more goals in the 60th and 76th minutes to seal a dominant performance for Argentina.
The 38-year-old football icon also became the oldest player in World Cup history to score a hat-trick, marking a remarkable milestone nearly two decades after his tournament debut in 2006.
The performance further strengthened Argentina’s title defence at the 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister praised Messi’s influence, describing him as irreplaceable to the national team’s success.
“There are no words to describe him. Anyone who thought the team could perform better without Messi saw today why he is so important,” he said.
He added that Argentina must continue building the team around the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Algeria defender Aïssa Mandi admitted his side struggled to contain the Argentine captain despite tactical preparations.
“He is probably one of the greatest players of all time. We tried to limit him, but it did not work,” Mandi said.
Speaking after the match, Messi expressed pride in reaching the milestone but said his focus remains on the tournament.
“It is an honour to be alongside legends like Miroslav Klose. But this is only the beginning of the journey,” he said.
He also paid tribute to Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazário, acknowledging his influence among football’s greatest icons.
Messi’s hat-trick is his 11th international hat-trick for Argentina, but his first ever in a World Cup match.
With Argentina advancing further in the tournament, the 2022 World Cup winner is now in strong contention to become the outright highest scorer in FIFA World Cup history.
Football analysts say his form could be decisive as Argentina continue their pursuit of back-to-back global titles.
