The Lionel Messi show hit the World Cup in style as the Argentina talisman scored a hattrick to celebrate his becoming the first man to play in six editions. Messi equalled Germany striker Miroslav Klose's World Cup record of 16 goals, moving past France's Kylian Mbappe who had scored twice in the 3-1 win over Senegal earlier on Wednesday.
Messi, making a record 200th appearance for Argentina, delighted fans in the packed Kansas City Stadium and worldwide with no signs of a recent hamstring issue, sprinkling his genius all over the pitch to subdue Algeria 3-0 and kick off the title defence in style.
The grand performance will shake off any doubts whether Messi was in shape to spearhead Argentina's quest for a fourth World Cup. His moving to Miami in the Major League Soccer seems to have done a world of good, in terms of lesser playing intensity to preserve his body and to be around people who are close to him.
Action seemed to slow down in the second half until it a Messi flick saw a left-wing cross deflected by Zidane, watched by his father in the stands. Mac Allister's powerful shot was again pushed by the goalkeeper on to Messi's path for a tap-in goal.
Messi went close for his hat-trick, but Zidane put out a firm hand to concede a corner, but he was helpless in the 76th minute. Substitute Nico Gonzales squared to Messi on top of the penalty area. As the entire Algerian defence stood rooted, Messi picked the spot to the goalkeeper's right and drilled a low shot.
