Messi hat-trick equals goalscoring record as Argentina beat Algeria

Lionel Messi delivered a masterful performance, scoring a hat-trick that not only secured a 3-0 victory for Argentina against Algeria but also saw him equal the all-time World Cup scoring record with 16 goals. At 38, Messi also became the oldest player to achieve a World Cup hat-trick, silencing any lingering doubts about his influence on the field.

The match, held at Kansas City Stadium, saw Messi net his first goal in the 17th minute, collecting a precise through ball from Rodrigo De Paul and unleashing a powerful shot. His second came in the 60th minute after a fumble by Algerian goalkeeper Luca Zidane, and he completed his treble in the 76th minute with another impressive strike. The crowd, a vibrant sea of sky blue and white, erupted with each goal, chanting his name.

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I collected a brilliant through ball from Rodrigo De Paul, who slipped a perfectly weighted pass between Algeria’s back line. Messi drove forward before unleashing a rocket from about 25 yards out that glanced off the fingertips of goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of France great Zinedine Zidane who was in the crowd, and into the top-right corner.

Argentina's commanding win breathes life into their title defense, dispelling concerns that arose from previous World Cup campaigns that began with unexpected stumbles. The team's authoritative display signals their resurgence as a formidable force, with their next match scheduled against Austria in Arlington, Texas. This victory marks a significant step in their quest to become the first men's team to retain the World Cup since Brazil in 1962.

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Messi almost completed his hat-trick about five minutes later, but Zidane leapt to push his shot over the bar, yet he did find the net again in the 76th minute with another blistering strike, teed up by substitute Nico Gonzalez.