Image: from Fabrizio Romano X @FabrizioRomano
By Open Chronicle with agencies
Lionel Messi once again wrote his name into football history on Wednesday, scoring a remarkable hat-trick as Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
At 39 years old, the Argentine captain became the first player ever to appear in six FIFA World Cup tournaments. As if that milestone were not enough, his three goals saw him draw level with Miroslav Klose as the highest scorer in World Cup history, further cementing his legacy as one of the game’s greatest players.
Argentina entered the match as the favorites, but Algeria showed early signs of resistance. The African side thought they had taken the lead when Farès Chaïbi found the net, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside. Moments earlier, Messi had also seen a goal disallowed after being flagged in an offside position.
Lionel Messi's 3 goals against Algeria, first Hat-trick in World Cup ♥️♥️ It's a Messi Lovers Day!! pic.twitter.com/ittjlAWFj6
— Knowledge Ocean News (@marlin_wizard) June 17, 2026
The breakthrough arrived in the 17th minute and showcased the brilliance that has defined Messi’s career for two decades. Rodrigo De Paul delivered a superb forward pass, finding the Argentine star in space near the center circle. Messi advanced confidently before unleashing a powerful strike from outside the penalty area that left goalkeeper Luca Zidane with little chance despite getting a hand to the ball.
The goal settled Argentina and allowed Lionel Scaloni’s side to dictate the pace of the game. Their quick passing combinations and technical superiority made life increasingly difficult for Algeria, which struggled to regain control of possession.
Argentina continued to dominate after the interval and doubled its lead early in the second half. Alexis Mac Allister tested Zidane with a low effort, and although the goalkeeper managed to make the initial save, he pushed the ball directly into Messi’s path. The Inter Miami forward reacted instantly, tapping home his second goal of the evening.
With confidence growing and the result seemingly secure, Messi delivered one final moment of magic.
Receiving the ball just outside the area, he controlled it expertly with his left foot before curling a magnificent shot into the corner of the net. The goal completed his hat-trick and sent the Argentine supporters into celebration.
Shortly afterward, Scaloni substituted his captain, allowing Messi to leave the field to a standing ovation from fans inside the stadium. Argentina comfortably managed the closing stages and secured all three points without further difficulty.
The victory places the reigning world champions at the top of their group as they await the outcome of the match between Austria and Jordan.
Messi Reaches Another Historic Milestone
The spotlight belonged entirely to Lionel Messi. His hat-trick not only secured Argentina’s winning start to the tournament but also elevated him into the history books once again.
Already the first footballer to participate in six World Cups, Messi now shares the record for the most goals in World Cup history alongside former Germany striker Miroslav Klose. It was another unforgettable chapter in a career filled with extraordinary achievements.
The Defining Moment
The turning point came in the 17th minute. After already having one goal ruled out, Messi received a precise pass from Rodrigo De Paul and produced a trademark finish from outside the penalty area.
It was a goal that combined vision, technique, and composure, qualities that have made him one of football’s most iconic figures. From that moment onward, Argentina controlled the contest and never looked back.
With Messi in inspired form and Argentina beginning their title defense convincingly, the world champions have sent an early message to the rest of the tournament.