Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass in the opening Group J encounter, netting a hat‑trick that not only secured a 3‑0 victory over Algeria but also placed him level with the all‑time World Cup scoring record. The performance was greeted by a roaring crowd and immediate praise from teammates and rivals alike.
Milestone at 38
At 38 years old, Messi became the oldest player ever to score a World Cup hat‑trick, and it was his sixth appearance across six different tournaments, a first in the competition's history. His ability to find space and finish with precision left the Algerian defense scrambling.
Argentina's third goal arrived in the 76th minute, a strike set up by substitute Nico González after a quick move from the bench, capping a fluid attacking display that highlighted the team's depth and tactical flexibility.
Algerian defender Aissa Mandi, after the match, praised the Argentine star, describing him as "maybe the best player of all time", a sentiment echoed by teammates and opponents who witnessed the moment.
With the win, Argentina eyes a historic feat: becoming the first men's side to defend the World Cup since Brazil in 1962. The victory adds extra pressure to their upcoming fixtures as they aim to retain the trophy.
The next challenge for the South Americans arrives on Monday, when they meet Austria in Arlington, Texas, before turning their attention to a Jordan side facing them in Santa Clara, California, later that same day.