Messi matches World Cup scoring record with hat-trick in Argentina's opening win

Lionel Messi equalled Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup scoring record on Wednesday night, delivering a masterclass in Kansas City as Argentina began their title defence with a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria in their Group J opener.

The 39-year-old Argentine superstar struck a first-half hat-trick to reach 16 World Cup goals, matching the German legend’s long-standing record in his record sixth tournament appearance. Messi, playing in his 200th international match, opened the scoring in the 23rd minute before adding two more in the second half as Argentina controlled the game with clinical efficiency. The result sets the tone for their campaign in North America, where they will face the Netherlands and Peru in the group stage.

Algeria, making their second World Cup appearance, struggled to contain Argentina’s attacking trio of Messi, Julián Álvarez and Thiago Almada. Despite Algeria’s recent friendly win over the Netherlands, their lack of top-tier opposition in qualifying left questions over their readiness at the tournament’s highest level. Coach Vladimir Petković’s side defended resolutely but were ultimately outplayed by a more experienced and cohesive opponent.

Messi’s milestone was met with widespread acclaim. German broadsheet *Die Welt* described his performance as a “show” that illuminated the World Cup’s opening night, while *The Guardian* noted that his record-equalling goal came exactly 20 years after his debut in the 2006 tournament. The Argentine press hailed the victory as a statement of intent, with *La Nación* calling it “the perfect start” to a campaign aiming to retain the trophy won in Qatar 2022.

The match also served as a reminder of Argentina’s depth, with young talents like Nico Paz making their World Cup debuts alongside established stars such as Lautaro Martínez, who returns after missing the 2022 edition due to injury. With Kylian Mbappé—now on 14 World Cup goals—also in action elsewhere, the stage is set for a high-scoring tournament.

As the World Cup progresses, all eyes will be on Messi, who at 39 has defied expectations to remain football’s most influential player. His record-breaking night in Kansas City was not just a personal triumph, but a statement that Argentina are serious contenders to repeat their triumph in Qatar.