Lionel Messi produced a memorable performance as Argentina began their FIFA World Cup title defence with a comfortable 3-0 win over Algeria. The Argentine captain scored his first-ever World Cup hat-trick and matched Miroslav Klose's all-time World Cup scoring record of 16 goals.
The 38-year-old also made history by becoming the first player to appear in six World Cups. His brilliant display helped Argentina avoid any opening-match surprises and start their campaign on a winning note.
Messi Opens the Scoring After Early Setback
Messi thought he had given Argentina the lead in the eighth minute. He finished from close range, but the offside flag ruled out the goal. The disappointment did not last long.
Soon after, Messi picked up the ball and made one of his trademark runs. He drove toward the edge of the penalty area and fired a powerful left-footed shot past Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane. The strike gave Argentina the lead and settled the defending champions. Algeria also had a goal disallowed early in the match. Fares Chaibi found the net in the ninth minute, but officials ruled him offside.
Argentina Stay in Control
Argentina controlled possession and created most of the chances. Algeria struggled to break through the South American side's defence. On the hour mark, Messi struck again. Alexis Mac Allister tested the goalkeeper with a powerful shot. The keeper saved it, but Messi reacted first to the rebound and tapped the ball into the net.
The goal doubled Argentina's advantage and put them firmly in control.
Messi Completes a Historic Hat-Trick
Messi saved his best moment for the 76th minute. He collected the ball just outside the penalty area and drilled a low shot beyond the goalkeeper. The finish completed his hat-trick and brought the crowd to its feet.
The goal carried extra significance. It took Messi to 16 World Cup goals, drawing him level with former Germany striker Miroslav Klose as the tournament's joint-highest scorer. It was another remarkable achievement in a career filled with records.
Standing Ovation for the Argentine Legend
Argentina substituted Messi three minutes after his third goal. Fans rose to applaud their captain as he left the field. Messi appeared eager to continue, but Argentina's coaching staff chose to rest him. With several important matches still ahead, preserving their star player made sense.
Fitness Concerns Fade Away
Messi entered the World Cup after recovering from a minor hamstring injury suffered during Inter Miami's season in Major League Soccer. However, he showed no signs of discomfort against Algeria. He looked sharp, energetic and dangerous throughout the match.
The game also marked the 200th international appearance of his career. Messi made his Argentina debut in 2005 at the age of 18 and has since become one of the greatest players in football history. Only Cristiano Ronaldo and Kuwait's Bader Al-Mutawa have made more international appearances.
Messi Outshines Mbappe and Haaland
Several football superstars impressed on Tuesday. Kylian Mbappe scored twice in France's 3-1 victory over Senegal. Erling Haaland also netted a brace as Norway defeated Iraq 4-1. However, Messi stole the spotlight with his historic hat-trick.
Argentina now move on to their next Group J match against Austria with confidence. If Messi continues this form, the defending champions will remain one of the strongest contenders to win the World Cup once again.