Messi scores hat trick, ties Klose's World Cup goal record

Lionel Messi delivered a hat trick as Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 in their World Cup opener, bringing his tournament tally to 16 goals and tying Germany's Miroslav Klose for the most career goals in the men’s World Cup. The goals came early in the match, from a pass by teammate Rodrigo De Paul, a second-half rebound, and a final strike before Messi was substituted, earning a standing ovation from the 69,045-strong crowd at Arrowhead Stadium.

Messi, who celebrated his 39th birthday last week, said his tears after the first goal were unrelated to football and thanked his teammates and staff for their support. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni described Messi as “incredible,” while Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic praised the Argentine captain’s influence on his team.

The performance marked Messi’s 200th appearance for Argentina and his first World Cup hat trick, extending his streak to five consecutive tournament games with a goal. He also became the second player to score in five World Cup editions, joining Cristiano Ronaldo. Other notable players on the day included Kylian Mbappé, who scored twice for France, and Erling Haaland, who netted two for Norway.

Messi, who has managed a minor hamstring issue ahead of the tournament, said he feels in good shape and emphasized the importance of starting the competition with a win. His achievement adds to a series of milestones as Argentina prepares for the next stages of the competition.