KANSAS CITY, United States — Lionel Messi delivered a record-breaking performance as defending champions Argentina opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria on Tuesday, powered by the veteran forward’s first-ever World Cup hat-trick.
Okay News reports that Messi produced all three goals at Kansas City Stadium to secure Argentina’s winning start in Group J and continue his remarkable international career. The 38-year-old became the first footballer to appear in six World Cups and moved level with Miroslav Klose as the joint highest goalscorer in World Cup history with 16 goals.
The Inter Miami star marked his 200th appearance for Argentina in memorable fashion, repeatedly troubling Algeria’s defence as the South Americans controlled large portions of the contest. His three-goal display also made him only the second player to score in five different World Cup tournaments, further cementing his place among football’s greatest players.
The match carried additional significance as it came exactly 20 years after Messi made his World Cup debut for Argentina in 2006. Two decades later, the Argentine captain once again found himself rewriting football history, recording the 61st hat-trick of his professional career and the 11th for his national team.
After the match, Messi described the achievement as a special moment shared with his family, teammates and supporters. He also praised the unity within the Argentine squad and highlighted the importance of beginning their title defence with a victory.
Argentina’s convincing win strengthens expectations that Lionel Scaloni’s side could become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup title. The South Americans will next face Austria as they seek to secure early qualification for the knockout stage, while Algeria must regroup ahead of their remaining group matches.
