The 2026 FIFA World Cup has produced its first landmark moment. Reigning world champions Argentina powered past Algeria 3-0 in a glittering Group J opener in Kansas City. But more significantly Lionel Messi rubber-stamped his claim for the greatest goalscorer at a World Cup with an incredible hat-trick, that will set the tone for his every step on this stage going forward.
Defying his 38 years, the Argentine magician was phenomenal and took his World Cup goal haul to 16 with a sublime hat-trick, equalling Miroslav Klose’s World Cup all-time record for goals.
A historic hat-trick
Despite Vladimir Petkovi's side proving organized, the deadlock was broken after 17 minutes. Receiving the ball in the central channels, Messi dribbled at the back four before taking a step, shifting it on to his venomous left boot and smashing a rocket past Luca Zidane.
Algeria did not fade as, through pace on the counter, their attackers such as Amine Gouiri looked to get a way into the game, but Argentina's defense, anchored by Lisandro Martinez stood firm and completely impenetrable. The second goal came roughly an hour in, as Zidane spilled a driving shot and Messi pounced for a simple tap-in.
The moment arrived in the 76th minute, a scintillating counter-attack saw a slick passing exchange between Messi and Nico Gonzalez, and the Argentine slid a controlled effort into the bottom corner from 20 yards out, sending the Kansas City faithful into delirium, standing in ovation, goal number 16 now on the board and a World Cup hat-trick in the books.
Next steps for Messi's Argentina
A very harsh reality check for Algeria, but some neat possession in spells against Argentina will give them something to build upon for their vital clash with Jordan, and a chance to pick up a win that will truly kick-start their tournament hopes.
This was the perfect opening to the title defence from Lionel Scaloni's Argentina. Tactical discipline, defensive security and ruthless efficiency in the final third. Much have been said about the ageing Argentina and Messi, but they have proven again that they are here to go all the way. Tonight has been about so much more than just three points. It's about Lionel Messi.
He has achieved everything on a football field and with at least two more group games yet to come the World Cup scoring record unequivocally will belong to him alone. He is simply the "Greatest Of ALL Time."
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