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Lionel Messi delivered another masterclass on the biggest stage, scoring the first World Cup hat-trick of his illustrious career as Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 in their Group J clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Kansas City.
The 38-year-old captain produced a vintage performance to guide the defending champions to a comfortable victory, while simultaneously writing another chapter in football history by equalling Germany legend Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup scoring record.
Messi’s three goals secured Argentina’s second consecutive win of the tournament and strengthened their position at the top of Group J.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner opened the scoring in the 17th minute after receiving a precise pass from Rodrigo De Paul before firing a powerful effort beyond goalkeeper Luca Zidane.
Despite Algeria’s spirited attempts to stay in the contest, Argentina controlled possession and dictated the tempo throughout the encounter.
Messi doubled Argentina’s advantage in the 60th minute after capitalising on a goalkeeping error. Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane failed to deal with a long-range effort from Alexis Mac Allister, allowing the loose ball to fall kindly to Messi, who calmly slotted home his 15th World Cup goal.
The Argentine superstar then completed his historic hat-trick in the 76th minute, finishing off a flowing team move after receiving a pass from substitute Nico González.
The goal marked Messi’s 16th career World Cup goal, drawing him level with Klose as the tournament’s joint-highest goalscorer in history.
It was also Messi’s first-ever World Cup hat-trick across six appearances at football’s biggest competition, further cementing his status as one of the greatest players the sport has ever produced.
Argentina’s dominance left Algeria with few opportunities, with goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez barely tested throughout the match.
The North Africans struggled to break down Argentina’s organised defence and failed to register any meaningful threat in front of goal.
The victory continues Argentina’s impressive title defence as Lionel Scaloni’s side seek to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully retain the World Cup trophy.
Messi, who will turn 39 later this month, once again proved age is no barrier to greatness, delivering a performance that reminded the football world why he remains at the centre of Argentina’s ambitions.
Argentina will now turn their attention to their next Group J fixture against Austria, while Algeria face a must-win encounter to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive.
With one more goal, Messi will surpass Klose and become the outright highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history.
