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Lionel Messi added another remarkable chapter to his storied career by scoring the first FIFA World Cup hat-trick of his career in Argentina's 3-0 victory over Algeria on June 16.
Playing in a record sixth World Cup, the 39-year-old struck once in the opening minutes, added a second early in the second half and completed his treble before being substituted to a standing ovation. The hat-trick took Messi's tally to 16 goals in World Cup tournaments, drawing him level with Germany's Miroslav Klose at the top of the all-time scoring charts. In doing so, the Argentine captain not only launched his country's title defence in emphatic fashion but also became the first player to appear in six men's World Cups, further cementing his place among football's greatest-ever players.Records and milestones achieved by Messi against Algeria:
- Scored his first-ever FIFA World Cup hat-trick.
- Became the first player to feature in six men's World Cups.
- Took his World Cup tally to 16 goals.
- Equalled Miroslav Klose's record for most goals in World Cup history.
- Guided Argentina to a 3-0 victory in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup.
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