Magnificent Messi Scores Hat-Trick to Equal Klose Scoring Record
It was a day showcasing football's biggest stars, yet Lionel Messi commanded the spotlight. Following impressive performances from France's Kylian Mbappe and Norway's Erling Haaland, who each scored twice, the stage was set for a remarkable display. This was no supporting act; it was the Messi show.
Messi delivered his first World Cup hat-trick, equaled the record for most World Cup goals with his 16th, and demonstrated that despite his age, he remains a dominant force. Argentina secured a 3-0 victory over Algeria, with Messi at the heart of the action.
As the sun set behind the Kansas City skyline, the 38-year-old became the first player ever to participate in six World Cups, surpassing rival Cristiano Ronaldo by a day. Exactly twenty years after his World Cup debut as an 18-year-old at Germany 2006, one of football's greatest stars showed remarkable sharpness during his 200th appearance for Argentina.
There was a brief moment of concern after his opening goal when Messi's studs caught the heel of Algeria's Aissa Mandi just after the half-hour mark, but no disciplinary action was taken. Messi capitalized fully on the opportunity.
"To enjoy this with my family, with my team-mates, the ones who are always there, is a really beautiful moment.
"The squad, it's a very united, very strong group. I feel good; we were lucky enough to win a tough match. It's important to start off with a win in the first game.
"I'm grateful to the fans, because once again they've shown that Argentina is crazy about this - we packed the stadium again.
"Everything I'm experiencing now is a bonus. I've been fortunate enough to achieve all my dreams — or even more than I ever dreamed of achieving — both professionally and personally."
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni added:
"I don't have the words to describe Messi. For 20 years, he's had us used to seeing things like this and he inspires everyone who watches him play."
Messi Becomes First Player to Appear in Six World Cups
Messi Celebrates Like It's His First World Cup Goal
The match offered an early indication of what was to come. Four minutes in, Messi broke clear and scored past Algeria's goalkeeper Luca Zidane, but the offside flag denied what would have been a fairy-tale start. Fans celebrated as if Argentina had already won the tournament. Journalists exchanged knowing looks; it was only a matter of time.
By the 18th minute, Messi's moment arrived. From 25 yards out, he shifted onto his left foot and curled a superb shot toward the top-right corner. Zidane, son of French legend Zinedine Zidane, managed to get both hands to the ball, but the strike was too powerful. The stadium erupted as Argentina fans celebrated Messi's 14th World Cup goal, marking the beginning of a historic evening.
Former Everton midfielder Leon Osman commented:
"Messi is celebrating like it's his first World Cup goal. With the ability he has, he never seems to age. It's a brilliant ball into his feet and, as you'd expect, he finishes it superbly."
Two decades after his first World Cup appearance and now playing in a record 27th World Cup match, Messi continues to defy age. Throughout the game, he was constantly scanning for options and anticipating Argentina's next move, appearing fit, fast, and threatening.
After 60 minutes, Messi scored again. An error by Zidane allowed the ball to roll into Messi's path, and with typical composure, he placed it into the net. This goal brought him within one of becoming the joint-top scorer in World Cup history and made him the oldest player to score twice in a World Cup match.
Age has not diminished Messi's prowess. Since turning 35, he has scored 10 World Cup goals—more than Harry Kane, Diego Maradona, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Thierry Henry have each scored in total.
The Moment of History
In the 76th minute, Messi completed his hat-trick, assisted by substitute Nico Gonzalez. The moment seemed destined.
This goal allowed Messi to equal Germany's Miroslav Klose as the all-time top scorer in World Cup finals.
With arms raised and eyes lifted to the sky, thousands of Argentina fans cheered his name. Even for Messi, this was a special occasion. He turned to thank the supporters as the stadium roared.
Upon being substituted, Messi left the pitch to a standing ovation, his name echoing throughout Kansas City.
Long after the final whistle, thousands of Argentina fans remained, continuing the celebration. The stadium was a sea of blue and white, drums beating continuously, and fans singing passionately.
Many wore jerseys bearing Messi's name; others displayed tattoos of the star. His name dominated conversations.
For Argentina fans, Messi is more than a player. Words like 'Hero,' 'Idol,' and 'Our son' were commonly used to describe him.
He inspired Argentina to the World Cup title four years ago. Few would doubt Messi's ability to lead his country to victory once again.
Even Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, typically the main attraction at this stadium, watched intently, captivated by Messi's brilliance.
On a day filled with superstars, the ageless Argentine stood above them all.
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