Lionel Messi added another remarkable chapter to his World Cup story with a stunning hat-trick against Algeria, making an emphatic start to the 2026 tournament.
The Argentina captain, who became the first player in history to appear in six FIFA World Cups, once again demonstrated why he remains one of football's defining figures despite approaching his 39th birthday later this month.
The hat-trick carried significance beyond Argentina's comfortable victory. It took Messi to 16 World Cup goals, drawing him level with German great Miroslav Klose as the joint-highest scorer in the tournament's history.
It was also the first World Cup hat-trick of his career, adding yet another milestone to a resume already packed with records and achievements.
There was little sign of age catching up with him. Messi looked sharp from the opening whistle, dictating attacks, finding space between the lines and repeatedly troubling the Algerian defence.
His opening goal set the tone for the evening, while the two that followed underlined his enduring ability to decide matches on the biggest stage.
For Argentina, it was the ideal start to their title defence. For the rest of the field, it was an early reminder that the reigning champions still possess the player capable of changing the course of any game.
Messi completed his hat-trick in the 76th minute, sparking wild celebrations among the sea of Argentine supporters in Kansas City.
As the crowd rose to salute him, the veteran forward once again showed that he remains at the heart of Argentina's World Cup ambitions.
