Messi`s historic hat-trick sinks Algeria

Lionel Messi delivered a memorable performance in his 200th international appearance, scoring the first World Cup hat-trick of his career as Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Playing in a record sixth World Cup, the Argentine captain produced a masterclass to guide the defending champions to a comfortable victory. Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a powerful long-range strike before adding a second goal shortly after the hour mark.

The 38-year-old completed his hat-trick in the 76th minute following a neat exchange with Nico González, becoming only the second player after Cristiano Ronaldo to score in five different World Cup tournaments. The goals also took his World Cup tally to 16, drawing him level with Miroslav Klose among the competition’s all-time leading scorers.

Messi's landmark appearance made him just the third player to reach 200 international caps, joining Cristiano Ronaldo and Bader Al-Mutawa. He received a standing ovation when substituted late in the match as Argentina began their title defense in emphatic fashion.

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After the match, coach Lionel Scaloni praised his captain’s performance, saying Messi’s form would provide a major boost to Argentina’s hopes of retaining the World Cup trophy.