Messi scores historic hattrick in Argentina’s 3-0 win against Algeria

Argentina began the 2026 World Cup with a 3-0 victory vs. Algeria as the match will be remembered with Leo Messi’s 1^st hattrick at the World Championship.

That was Argentina’s superstar a record-equalizing 16^th World Cup goal, and a huge statement for the South American country that they came to North America to defend its title.

Messi also became the 1^st footballer to appear at 6 World Cups – beating rival Cristiano Ronaldo by 24 hours. Leo made his debut at the biggest international football tournament 20 years ago in Germany, and now Lionel is still shining as he played his 200^th match for the national team.

After the victory, Messi shared with the media that he is very happy to enjoy such success with his family, teammates, and the people that have always supported him: “I also want to thank to the supporters as they show their love for football and packed the stadium. Everything that is happening now in my career is a bonus as I had been fortunate enough to already achieve all my dreams as a footballer and in my personal life.”

More on this topic:

Scaloni: Messi will not join Argentina squad fully fit

MESSI SCORES HIS FIRST-EVER HAT TRICK AT A WORLD CUP AND TIES THE RECORD FOR THE MOST-EVER WORLD CUP GOALS 🐐 pic.twitter.com/NnnQT91oRQ

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) June 17, 2026