Lionel Messi produced a historic performance by scoring the first World Cup hat-trick of his legendary career as defending champions Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 match.

Playing in his sixth World Cup, Messi once again demonstrated his brilliance on football’s biggest stage.

The Argentine captain opened the scoring in the 17th minute before doubling the lead in the 60th minute.

He completed his hat-trick in the 76th minute, sealing a comfortable victory for Argentina.

The achievement was even more remarkable as an earlier Messi goal was ruled out for offside.

However, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner responded in spectacular fashion, scoring three times to leave Algeria’s defence struggling throughout the match.

The hat-trick not only gave Argentina a perfect start to their title defence but also helped Messi reach another major milestone.

He now has 16 goals in World Cup competition, drawing level with Germany’s Miroslav Klose as the joint-highest scorer in the history of the men’s FIFA World Cup.