Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Lionel Messi scored a historic hat trick as Argentina opened their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a 3 to 0 victory over Algeria in Kansas City. The Argentina captain equalled Miroslav Klose's all time World Cup scoring record of 16 goals on Tuesday, helping the defending champions begin their title defence in impressive fashion. The result gives Lionel Scaloni's side an early advantage in Group J and reinforces their status as one of the tournament favourites.
Argentina arrived at the tournament determined to avoid a repeat of their shock opening defeat to Saudi Arabia during the 2022 World Cup. This time, the reigning champions delivered a composed and dominant performance led by their iconic captain.
Messi's hat trick was the first of his World Cup career and added another milestone to an already extraordinary international legacy. The 38 year old now shares the tournament scoring record with former Germany striker Klose and has opportunities to move into sole possession of first place in upcoming matches against Austria and Jordan.
Messi reaches another historic milestone
The Argentina captain nearly opened the scoring inside five minutes after finishing neatly into the bottom corner, but the effort was ruled out for a marginal offside decision.
Algeria thought they had taken the lead moments later when Fares Chaibi found the net, only for VAR to overturn the goal following a review of the build up play.
Messi eventually broke the deadlock in the 17th minute. Combining with Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul, he unleashed a powerful strike from outside the area that flew into the roof of the net.
The goal settled Argentina and allowed them to control possession for much of the contest. Algeria struggled to create opportunities and managed only one shot on target throughout the match.
Argentina maintain control after halftime
The South American champions continued to press after the break. Lautaro Martinez and Alexis Mac Allister both tested goalkeeper Luca Zidane, who produced several important saves to keep Algeria within reach.
Zidane, the son of France legend Zinedine Zidane, initially frustrated Messi with a strong one on one stop before the Argentina star eventually struck again.
After Mac Allister's shot was saved on the hour mark, Messi reacted quickest to score from close range and move level with Brazilian great Ronaldo on 15 World Cup goals.
The forward continued to search for history and believed he should have earned a penalty after a challenge from Rayan Ait Nouri inside the area. However, referee Szymon Marciniak waved away the appeals.
Messi finally completed his hat trick in the 76th minute. Receiving a pass from Nicolas Gonzalez, he calmly guided a low finish into the corner to reach 16 World Cup goals and match Klose's long standing record.
Scaloni praises Argentina captain
Messi received a standing ovation from supporters at Arrowhead Stadium when he was substituted late in the match. Nico Paz replaced the veteran forward as Argentina comfortably protected its lead.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised his captain after another memorable display.
"At a loss for words about Leo. What can I say? He's incredible," Scaloni said.
"Everyone in football wants to see him and enjoys it."
Messi also reflected on the achievement and expressed his appreciation for the current Argentina squad.
The veteran forward said he was grateful to continue experiencing special moments with the national team and highlighted the strong spirit within the group.
Strong start for defending champions
Argentina's victory extends the positive momentum built during recent years under Scaloni. The team won the 2022 World Cup and has remained one of the strongest sides in international football.
The performance also demonstrated the balance within the squad beyond Messi. Players such as De Paul, Mac Allister and Lautaro Martinez contributed significantly to a controlled and professional display.
With two group matches still to come, Argentina is well positioned to advance to the knockout rounds. Attention will now focus on whether Messi can move ahead of Klose and continue leading the defending champions toward another deep World Cup run.