Lionel Messi opened his record-breaking sixth World Cup campaign on Tuesday, scoring a hat-trick as holders Argentina national football team defeated Algeria national football team 3–0 in their opening Group J clash.
The match, played at the 69,045-capacity Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, saw Messi equal the all-time FIFA World Cup scoring record of 16 goals, previously held by Germany’s Miroslav Klose.
The 38-year-old captain marked his 200th international appearance with a historic performance, becoming the first player ever to feature in six World Cups.
Record-breaking performance
Messi began his scoring spree in the 17th minute with a trademark curling strike, taking his World Cup tally to 14 goals and moving level with Germany legend Gerd Müller and France forward Kylian Mbappé.
He then edged past Müller and Mbappé in the 60th minute after converting a rebound, moving onto 15 World Cup goals alongside Brazil icon Ronaldo.
The Argentine star completed his hat-trick in the 76th minute with a composed finish from the edge of the box, reaching 16 goals and equalling Klose’s long-standing record.
Messi was substituted minutes later to a standing ovation from fans in what is expected to be his final World Cup appearance.
Mbappé and Haaland also shine
Elsewhere, Kylian Mbappé also made headlines after scoring twice in France national football team’s 3–1 victory over Senegal, surpassing Olivier Giroud to become France’s all-time top scorer with 58 goals.
Coach Didier Deschamps praised Mbappé, saying: “He is an extraordinary player… he can win games in one moment.”
In another Group I fixture, Norway striker Erling Haaland scored twice in a 4–1 win over Iraq, marking a strong World Cup debut for the Manchester City forward.
World Cup momentum builds
Argentina, who lifted the trophy in Qatar 2022 after defeating France in a dramatic penalty shootout, have now begun their campaign as favourites for another title.
France and Norway also opened with strong wins, setting the stage for a highly competitive tournament featuring multiple elite scorers.
Football analysts say the performances of Messi, Mbappé, and Haaland signal one of the most attack-heavy World Cup editions in recent history.
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