FIFA 2026: Messi Scores Hat-Trick As Argentina Begins World Cup Campaign With Stunning Win Over Algeria
Lionel Messi opened his record-breaking sixth World Cup with a hat-trick to become the tournament's joint all-time top scorer on Tuesday as holders Argentina launched their bid for back-to-back titles with a dazzling 3-0 rout of Algeria.
Messi Magic
Messi, who turns 39 next week, had started an unforgettable occasion, his 200th international appearance, by making history as the first man to play in six World Cups, leading Argentina onto the field for what would become a one-sided Group J clash.
Messi Magic
Messi, who turns 39 next week, had started an unforgettable occasion, his 200th international appearance, by making history as the first man to play in six World Cups, leading Argentina onto the field for what would become a one-sided Group J clash.