The enduring bond between Lionel Messi and the World Cup produced another memorable chapter as the Argentina captain inspired his nation to a 3-0 victory over Algeria in Kansas City. His first-ever World Cup hat trick helped the reigning champions begin their Group J campaign with three points and strengthened hopes of a successful defence of the title won in Doha four years earlier.
For all the joy that now surrounds Messi’s international career, his journey with Argentina has also been marked by disappointment and heartbreak. Yet at 38 years old, he once again occupied centre stage, delivering a performance that reminded the football world why he remains one of the game’s defining figures.
The achievement carried additional significance. Playing in his sixth World Cup, Messi recorded the first tournament hat-trick of his career and the 61st treble across all competitions. Argentina, seeking a fourth world title, benefited once more from the influence of the player who continues to shape their ambitions.
Rivals shine but Messi answers
Earlier in the day, Kylian Mbappe had produced another eye-catching display as France defeated Senegal 3-1 in New York, with the French forward scoring twice. His goals lifted him to fourth place on the World Cup’s all-time scoring list despite being only 27 years old.
Another leading striker also left his mark. Making his World Cup debut, Erling Haaland struck twice as Norway overcame Iraq 3-1, underlining his reputation as one of football’s most dangerous finishers.
Yet the spotlight ultimately returned to Messi. With France and Argentina both opening their campaigns successfully, the possibility remains of a repeat of the 2022 final in New Jersey on 19 July, provided each side tops its group and progresses through the knockout rounds.
Algeria threaten before Argentina take control
Although the final score suggested a comfortable evening for Argentina, Algeria briefly unsettled their opponents. The atmosphere inside Arrowhead Stadium was electric, with the venue holding the Guinness World Record for the loudest outdoor sports crowd at 142.2 decibels.
The North Africans thought they had taken the lead when Fares Chaibi found the net with a cleverly disguised finish, only for VAR to intervene and rule the goal out. The decision preserved the deadlock and gave Argentina an opportunity to settle.
The breakthrough eventually arrived through a move initiated by Rodrigo De Paul. Dropping deeper to collect possession, he delivered a pass that cut through the Algerian formation and located Messi. A swift turn and burst toward goal left defenders chasing back before the Argentine fired home, despite an attempted save from Luca Zidane.
That strike added another landmark to Messi’s remarkable record, making him both Argentina’s youngest and oldest World Cup goalscorer. His first goal at the tournament came as an 18-year-old in 2006, and two decades later he was still producing decisive moments on football’s biggest stage.
Three goals showcase enduring quality
Argentina’s tactical approach often appeared straightforward: place the ball in Messi’s path and allow him to dictate proceedings. Supported by players such as Lautaro Martinez, Enzo Fernandez, and Nico Gonzalez, the veteran forward repeatedly found space in dangerous positions.
His second goal arrived shortly after the hour mark. Alexis Mac Allister’s low effort slipped from the grasp of Luca Zidane, presenting Messi with a simple finish from close range. The chance was accepted calmly as Argentina tightened their grip on the contest.
The finest moment came later. Gonzalez sent a low pass into the penalty area, where Messi controlled it expertly before shifting the ball onto his left foot. The finish that followed curled into the bottom corner and completed the hat-trick in style.
Shortly afterwards, Lionel Scaloni withdrew his captain to a standing ovation. A fourth goal never arrived, but the damage had already been done. Argentina had secured victory, while Messi once again demonstrated that age has done little to diminish his influence.
Another chapter in a remarkable World Cup story
The closing stages were accompanied by celebration rather than anxiety as Argentina comfortably saw out the match. What had briefly threatened to become a difficult opening fixture ended as a showcase for the nation’s most iconic footballer.
Attention now turns to the next group match against Austria in Dallas, where Messi could move even closer to another historic milestone. The mention of Miroslav Klose’s scoring record now feels increasingly relevant as the Argentine continues to add to his legacy.
For years, Messi’s club success with Barcelona brought admiration, but it is his relationship with the Argentina national team that has created some of football’s most emotional moments. Many expected this World Cup to serve as a farewell appearance, yet performances like this suggest his final tournament may prove to be one of his most captivating.
