Messi Equals World Cup Goalscoring Record with Hat-Trick

Lionel Messi scored all three goals for Argentina in their 2026 World Cup opener against Algeria on Tuesday, equalling former Germany striker Miroslav Klose's tally of 16 goals on football's biggest stage. Messi, who became the first player to feature in six World Cups, celebrated his landmark 200th appearance for Argentina with a spectacular opener from distance in Kansas City, then netted from close range before completing his first-ever World Cup hat-trick.

The opening game in Group J ended in a 3-0 win for Argentina. The crowd gave Messi a standing ovation as he left the pitch, acknowledging his remarkable achievement which put him two goals clear of German legend Gerd Muller and France’s Kylian Mbappé. This performance came exactly 20 years after Messi made his World Cup debut in a match against Serbia and Montenegro, where he also scored.

This victory marked a stronger start for Argentina compared to their last World Cup in Qatar, where they were defeated by Saudi Arabia in their opening match. Despite concerns surrounding a mild hamstring injury in the lead-up to the tournament, Messi was in fine form, nearly scoring two additional goals, one of which was recalled for a marginal offside.

In defense, Messi was also crucial in helping the Albiceleste secure the game against the overwhelmed North Africans. Algeria's best chance came early in the match, but a VAR review ruled out Fares Chaibi's attempt due to an offside call.

The defending champions will continue their quest for back-to-back titles against Austria in Arlington, Texas, on Monday, followed by a match against Jordan on June 27. Algeria will face Jordan on Monday in Santa Clara, California, before taking on Austria in their Group J finale back in Kansas City on June 27. Argentina had claimed victory over France in a thrilling 2022 World Cup final, winning on penalties after a dramatic 3-3 draw that included a hat-trick from Les Bleus' striker Mbappé. France, who may meet Argentina again in the final if the seeding patterns hold, opened their tournament with a 3-1 win against Senegal, where Mbappé scored twice, showcasing his readiness for this World Cup.