Lionel Messi produced a masterclass on the biggest stage, scoring a hat-trick as Argentina began the defence of their FIFA World Cup title with an emphatic victory over Algeria in Group J at Kansas City Stadium.
The Argentine captain entered the contest needing three goals to match the all-time World Cup scoring record of 16 set by former Germany striker Miroslav Klose.
By the 76th minute, the 38-year-old had achieved exactly that, moving level with the legendary marksman.
The match started at a frantic pace, with both Messi and Algeria’s Fares Chaibi seeing goals ruled out for offside.
Messi, however, would not be denied for long. Collecting the ball well outside the penalty area, he glided past his marker before curling a stunning effort beyond goalkeeper Luca Zidane to open the scoring.
Algeria remained organised for much of the first half and restricted the reigning champions to limited opportunities.
Alexis Mac Allister’s header over the bar was Argentina’s only notable chance after the opener, while Anis Hadj Moussa tested Emiliano Martinez at the other end with a low strike that was comfortably gathered.
Argentina increased the pressure after the interval, with Messi central to nearly every attacking move.
After sending a long-range effort over the crossbar and creating an opening for Lautaro Martinez, the veteran forward doubled his tally.
Mac Allister’s powerful shot was spilled by Zidane, allowing Messi to react quickest and slot home the rebound.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner completed his hat-trick in trademark fashion, bending a precise effort into the corner from the edge of the box.
The goal not only sealed the victory but also capped his 200th senior appearance for Argentina in memorable style.
Messi’s latest World Cup treble arrived exactly 20 years after he made his tournament debut as a substitute against Serbia and Montenegro at Germany 2006.
The result puts Argentina in a strong position ahead of their next Group J clash against Austria on June 22, where Messi will have the opportunity to become the outright leading scorer in World Cup history.
Algeria, meanwhile, will look to bounce back when they face Jordan.
After the match, Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni praised his captain’s enduring brilliance, while Algeria skipper Aissa Mandi admitted Messi’s ruthless finishing proved decisive.
Reflecting on his achievement, Messi said he is simply enjoying every moment of a career that has already surpassed his childhood dreams, describing his current experiences with Argentina as an unexpected bonus.
