Messi's Historic Hat-Trick Powers Argentina to Dominant Win Over Algeria

Defending FIFA World Cup champions Argentina began their 2026 World Cup campaign in spectacular fashion, defeating Algeria 3-0 in their opening Group J match. The star of the night was none other than captain Lionel Messi, who scored all three goals to complete a stunning hat-trick and lead his team to a commanding victory.

Every goal scored by Messi was world-class. The 38-year-old legend showed his incredible finishing ability, netting three different types of goals that left Algerian defenders helpless. Argentina controlled the match from start to finish, with Messi once again proving why he is regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

Earlier in the tournament, France superstar Kylian Mbappé scored twice in France's 3-1 victory over Senegal and temporarily moved ahead of Messi on the World Cup all-time scoring chart. However, Messi responded in perfect fashion just hours later. His hat-trick took his World Cup goal tally to 16, allowing him to draw level with German legend Miroslav Klose as the joint-highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history.

The historic performance was also Messi's first-ever World Cup hat-trick and further strengthened his legendary status in football. Argentina's dream start sends a strong message to the rest of the tournament that the reigning champions are determined to defend their crown. With Messi in this kind of form, Argentina will once again be one of the favorites to lift the World Cup trophy.