Argentina Triumphs Over Algeria with Messi Matching World Cup Goal Record in Stunning Hat Trick

Argentina's defense of their World Cup crown started off with some jitters before Lionel Messi took control. The 38-year-old dazzled fans at Kansas City Stadium by netting a hat trick in a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria. This feat tied him with Miroslav Klose, both holding 16 World Cup goals, although Klose reached this milestone in fewer appearances.

The match began tensely for Argentina. Messi found the net early, but the goal was disallowed due to Lautaro Martinez's offside position during the build-up. Algeria nearly punished Argentina on the counterattack shortly after, only for VAR to rule out their goal for offside as well.

Both teams pushed hard to break the deadlock, but it was Messi’s moment to shine. A precise through ball from Rodrigo De Paul, Messi’s teammate at Inter Miami, split Algeria's defense, allowing Messi to curl a shot into the top-right corner. This goal not only put Argentina ahead but added to Messi’s ever-growing list of records.

“It’s hard to explain. We’re amazed with him still, though we get to see him every day,” said Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni.

Algeria’s coach Vladimir Petković acknowledged Messi’s brilliance, stating, “Class is permanent. He’s got eight Ballon d’Ors. Unfortunately, we also afforded him an opportunity with the first and second goals.”

This game marked Messi’s fifth World Cup tournament with at least one goal, exactly 20 years after his first World Cup strike. De Paul and Messi became only the fifth pair of MLS teammates to assist each other at a World Cup, joining mostly USMNT duos. Messi's tally also reached the 911th goal of his career across club and country.

The Argentine maestro’s dominance continued in the second half. After Alexis Mac Allister fired a long-range shot that was blocked, Messi pounced on the rebound to score again. Later, a slick pass from Nicolas Gonzalez set up Messi’s third goal, completing his first World Cup hat trick.

Despite Algeria matching Argentina in possession and attempting seven shots, none were on target, failing to challenge goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.

Player Performances at Kansas City Stadium

• Emiliano Martinez (7/10): Rarely troubled, showed calm distribution that helped settle Argentina early. His long pass led directly to Messi’s second goal.
• Facundo Medina (7/10): Kept Algeria’s wingers under control, focused more on defense than attack.
• Cristian Romero (7/10): Solid defensive presence; Algeria never tested him with shots on target.
• Lisandro Martinez (8/10): Contributed four clearances, two tackles, and an interception, anchoring the backline.
• Gonzalo Montiel (7/10): Strong defensive work in the first half before being subbed at halftime.
• Rodrigo De Paul (8/10): Played a combative role in midfield, delivered the key assist to Messi.
• Enzo Fernandez (7/10): Maintained ball circulation with neat passing and rhythm control.
• Alexis Mac Allister (7/10): Created Messi’s second goal with a daring shot and worked effectively on both ends.
• Thiago Almada (6/10): Added width and speed, but little else impactful.
• Lionel Messi (10/10): A legendary display that erased doubts about his status. Now tied for all-time World Cup goals, with opportunities to set new records in assists and wins.
• Lautaro Martínez (5/10): Struggled to find rhythm in his 55 minutes, showing uncertainty between shooting and passing.
• Julian Alvarez (5/10): Returned from injury but had limited influence.
• Nicolas González (7/10): Came on for Almada and quickly assisted Messi’s final goal.
• Nicolas Otamendi (6/10): Provided defensive stability after entering the game.
• Nico Paz (6/10): Fresh legs brought energy without standout moments.
• Nahuel Molina (6/10): Entered after Montiel, contributed adequately.
• Lionel Scaloni (8/10): Made smart substitutions and guided the team past early nerves into a composed, dominant performance.