Messi Makes History With World Cup Hat-Trick
News Desk
Argentina captain Lionel Messi reached another major milestone in his illustrious career by scoring a hat-trick in his side’s opening FIFA World Cup 2026 match against Algeria, leading the defending champions to a convincing 3-0 victory.
The 38-year-old star produced a brilliant performance in the Group J encounter, registering the first World Cup hat-trick of his career. The three goals took his overall World Cup tally to 16, drawing him level with former Germany striker Miroslav Klose for the most goals in the tournament’s history.
The achievement came exactly 20 years after Messi made his World Cup debut against Serbia and Montenegro, a match in which he also found the back of the net.
With the hat-trick, Messi also became only the second player in football history to score goals in five different editions of the FIFA World Cup.
Despite the celebrations surrounding Argentina’s strong start and Messi’s record-equalling feat, the Argentine captain attracted attention when he appeared emotional after scoring his first goal.
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Speaking to reporters after the match, Messi revealed that his tears were related to personal matters rather than football.
“These tears had nothing to do with football. I have gone through a very difficult and complicated period in the last few days. It was an issue that had nothing to do with sports,” he said.
Messi declined to provide further details but thanked his teammates and the Argentine delegation for supporting him during a challenging time.
Argentina dominated the match from the outset, with Messi opening the scoring after receiving a pass from his Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul. He added his second goal shortly after the break before completing his hat-trick in the closing stages of the match.
The veteran forward appeared fully recovered from a minor hamstring injury that had raised concerns before the tournament.
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni praised his captain’s performance after the match.
“I have run out of words for Leo. What can I say? He is truly incredible,” Scaloni said.
The victory gives Argentina an ideal start to their World Cup title defence, while Messi’s record-equalling performance has shifted attention to whether he can surpass Klose’s mark and become the tournament’s all-time leading scorer before the competition concludes.
