Magical Messi Makes History With Hat-Trick in Argentina’s World Cup Win

Lionel Messi delivered another unforgettable World Cup performance on Tuesday, scoring a sensational hat-trick as Argentina opened their title defence with a dominant 3-0 victory over Algeria.

The Argentine superstar lit up Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, becoming the World Cup’s joint all-time top scorer with 16 goals — level with Germany legend Miroslav Klose.

The night was already historic before kick-off, with Messi becoming the first footballer ever to play in six FIFA World Cups during his 200th appearance for Argentina.

But the 38-year-old ensured the occasion became even more memorable with the first World Cup hat-trick of his career.

Messi struck first in the 17th minute with a curling finish before adding a rebound effort in the second half to move level with Brazilian icon Ronaldo on 15 goals.

He completed the hat-trick in the 76th minute with a composed low strike that took him level with Klose at the top of the World Cup scoring charts.

The Argentine captain received a standing ovation when he left the pitch moments later.

Despite rewriting history again, Messi insisted the record itself was not important to him.

“It’s an honor to be there, given what it means to stand alongside Klose or the others,” he said.

“In the end, it’s just a statistic and nothing more.”

Argentina’s strong start boosts hopes of becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup trophy.

Elsewhere, Kylian Mbappe scored twice in France’s 3-1 victory over Senegal, while Norway striker Erling Haaland announced himself on the World Cup stage with two goals against Iraq.

France coach Didier Deschamps described Mbappe as “an extraordinary player,” while Norway boss Stale Solbakken praised Haaland for handling the pressure of his World Cup debut.

Austria also secured a 3-1 victory over World Cup newcomers Jordan later on Tuesday.

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