Argentina captain Lionel Messi scored a historic hat-trick as defending champions defeated Algeria 3-0 in their Group J opener at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 38-year-old forward struck in the 17th minute with a trademark left-footed effort from distance, giving Argentina early control of the match at Arrowhead Stadium.
Messi doubled the lead in the 60th minute after finishing from inside the penalty area, before completing his treble 16 minutes later with a precise strike from the edge of the box. He was substituted in the 79th minute to a standing ovation as Argentina managed the closing stages comfortably.
The goals took Messi’s World Cup tally to 16, drawing him level with Miroslav Klose at the top of the all-time scoring chart in World Cup history.
Elsewhere in the tournament, Erling Haaland also made an impact on his World Cup debut, scoring twice as Norway defeated Iraq 4-1 in their opening Group I fixture.
FIFA World Cup action continues as teams push for early qualification momentum in the group stage.