Lionel Messi delivered a record-equalling performance as Argentina began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a commanding 3-0 win over Algeria in Kansas City.
The Argentina captain struck a hat-trick on 17, 60 and 76 minutes to take his World Cup goal tally to 16, drawing level with Germany’s Miroslav Klose at the top of the all-time scoring chart.
Messi, who entered the match needing three goals to match the record, wasted little time setting the tone. After both Messi and Algeria’s Fares Chaibi saw efforts ruled out for offside early on, the 38-year-old broke the deadlock with a trademark moment of brilliance, turning his marker 30 yards from goal before curling a precise finish beyond Luca Zidane.
Algeria remained organised and competitive for much of the first half, limiting Argentina’s clear chances, although Emiliano Martinez was rarely troubled.
After the break, Messi continued to dictate proceedings. His second goal arrived after Zidane failed to hold a powerful strike from Alexis Mac Allister, allowing the Argentina skipper to react quickest and convert the rebound.
The hat-trick was completed in typical fashion, with Messi curling a finish from the edge of the box to seal a milestone 200th international appearance in style.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised his captain’s influence, saying: “I don’t have the words to describe [Lionel] Messi. For 20 years, he’s had us used to seeing things like this, and he inspires everyone who watches him play. We’re going to take it one game at a time. The team is happy; we gave playing time to a lot of players. Hopefully we can win the next one so everyone can be in the third group game.”
Algeria captain Aissa Mandi admitted his side struggled to contain the forward, saying: “What made the difference is that they have a player who is ruthless, almost every chance he gets ends up in the back of the net. He might be the best player of all time. His efficiency is formidable; we knew that. We tried to shut him down as much as possible, but it didn’t work – he was too good for us there.”
Argentina will next face Austria on 22 June, while Algeria meet Jordan in their second Group J fixture.
