Lionel Messi has proven once again why he's the best in the game, delivering a stunning performance in Argentina's World Cup opener against Algeria. The 38-year-old captain scored a hat-trick, including a thunderous strike from outside the box, to lead his team to a 3-0 victory.
Messi's display was a statement from both the player and the defending champions, making it clear that they won't surrender their title easily. He looked sharp, fit, and fully in control, silencing doubts about his ability to perform at the highest level.
The Argentina captain's performance earned admiration from across the football world, with even Erling Haaland taking to social media to salute the Argentine star, describing him as a "madman" for his remarkable standards at an age when most players have long stepped away from the spotlight.
Messi's hat-trick took him to 16 World Cup goals, drawing him level with German great Miroslav Klose as the joint-highest scorer in the tournament's history. He also became the oldest player to score a World Cup hat-trick, surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo's mark of 33 years.
