Messi makes history with hat-trick against Algeria in World Cup opener

Lionel Messi showed that age doesn’t matter with an amazing performance against Algeria in their first Group J match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Argentina captain led his team to a solid 3-0 win over the Desert Foxes.

In his 200th senior game for Argentina, the 38-year-old became the first ever player to play in six World Cups.

King Leo was the hero for Argentina (PHOTO CREDIT: FIFA World Cup Channel)

He celebrated this milestone in style, scoring a hat-trick that secured his spot among football legends.

Messi became the oldest player to score more than once in a World Cup match at 38 years and 357 days, breaking the record set by Cameroonian great Roger Milla in 1990.

His three goals also brought his total World Cup goals to 16, tying him with German star Miroslav Klose as the tournament's joint-highest scorer.

After having an early goal ruled out for offside, Messi kicked off the scoring in the 17th minute. He scored with his famous left foot after a pass from Rodrigo De Paul. This goal settled Argentina and let them control the game against an Algerian side that struggled to keep up with their pace and skill.

Algeria had some bright moments thanks to Farès Chaïbi, but they could not take their chances and Argentina made them pay.

Messi scored again on the hour mark. He was quick to respond after goalkeeper Luca Zidane dropped a long shot from Alexis Mac Allister. The veteran then completed his hat-trick with 15 minutes to go, finishing a fast counterattack to seal the victory.

This win gives Argentina a great start to their title defense and adds to their strong form, having won 14 of their last 16 matches in all competitions.