Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick to lead Argentina to a 3-0 victory over Algeria on Tuesday night [1].
The performance establishes Messi as the oldest player to ever score a World Cup hat-trick and brings him level with the all-time scoring record [3]. As the defending 2022 champions, Argentina's dominant start in the tournament signals a strong bid for a consecutive title [2].
The match took place at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri [1]. Messi netted three goals for his side, resulting in a final score of 3-0 [1]. This feat marks the first World Cup hat-trick of Messi's career [1].
With these three goals, Messi has now reached a total of 16 World Cup goals [3]. This tally equals the all-time record for goals scored in the tournament's history [3].
The victory provides Argentina with early momentum in the group stage. While some reports mentioned celebrations in New York City, verified accounts place the festivities at the match venue in Kansas City [1], [2].
Argentina continues its campaign as the team to beat in the 2026 tournament. The team's ability to rely on a veteran Messi for high-volume scoring remains a critical component of their tactical approach.
“Messi scored a hat-trick, tying the all-time World Cup goals record”
Messi's achievement of 16 career World Cup goals cements his statistical legacy alongside the greatest scorers in the history of the sport. By delivering a hat-trick as the oldest player to do so, he demonstrates a level of longevity and efficiency that is rare in international football, positioning Argentina as a formidable favorite to defend their title.
