Messi ties men's World Cup goals record with first World Cup hat trick

Lionel Messi celebrated an emotional hat trick as Argentina opened their 2026 Men's World Cup campaign with a dominant 3-0 victory over Algeria. The performance not only secured an early lead for Argentina but also saw Messi tie Germany's Miroslav Klose for the all-time men's World Cup scoring record.

Visibly moved after his first goal, Messi later explained that his tears stemmed from personal difficulties rather than football matters. "My tears after the first goal? I've had some tough days. It wasn't related to football," Messi said. "I thank my teammates, the coaching staff and the delegation for helping me."

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My tears after the first goal? I've had some tough days. It wasn't related to football. And those feelings were because of that. I thank my teammates, the coaching staff and the delegation for helping me.

Messi's first goal came early in the match, assisted by Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul. He added a second goal from a rebound in the second half and completed his hat trick with a precise strike before being substituted to a standing ovation from the 69,045 spectators.

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At a loss for words about Leo. What can I say? He's incredible.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised Messi's performance, stating, "At a loss for words about Leo. What can I say? He's incredible." This hat trick marked Messi's first in a World Cup, his 11th for the national team, and his fifth consecutive World Cup game with a goal. He has now scored 16 goals in six World Cup appearances.

Messi's achievement overshadowed strong performances from other stars like Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland, who also scored twice in their respective matches. Haaland acknowledged Messi's feat, calling him "a madman" on social media.

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Messi is a madman.