Lionel Messi scored three goals Tuesday to tie the all-time World Cup scoring record during Argentina's opening match against Algeria [1].
The performance places Messi in an elite tier of football history as Argentina begins its campaign to defend the 2022 title. By reaching this milestone, Messi cements his legacy as one of the most prolific scorers in the history of the tournament.
Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 [2] in the match held on June 16, 2026 [3]. The game took place at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri [4]. Messi's three goals [1] brought his total career World Cup tally to 16 [5], moving him into a tie with Germany's Miroslav Klose for the most goals scored in the competition's history [5].
Beyond the scoring record, the match marked another historic milestone for the forward. Messi became the first player to appear in six World Cups [6]. This longevity allows him to maintain a competitive edge as the veteran leader of the Argentine squad.
The victory provides Argentina with early momentum in the group stage. The team's dominant 3-0 win [2] reflects a strong start for the defending champions in the U.S.-hosted tournament.
“Messi and Miroslav Klose are now tied with 16 World Cup goals each”
Messi's ascent to joint-top scorer status underscores his unprecedented consistency across multiple decades of international play. By matching Klose's record in the opening match, Messi has the opportunity to become the sole record holder during the remainder of the 2026 tournament, potentially redefining the scoring benchmark for future generations of players.
