Messi scores hat-trick as Argentina open World Cup campaign with 3-0 win over Algeria

Lionel Messi opened his record-breaking sixth FIFA World Cup in sensational style on Tuesday, scoring a hat-trick to guide defending champions Argentina to a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria in Kansas City.

The 38-year-old forward delivered a masterclass at Arrowhead Stadium, reaching 16 World Cup goals to equal Germany’s Miroslav Klose as the tournament’s all-time leading scorer.

Messi also became the first male footballer to feature in six World Cups, marking his 200th international appearance in a match that saw Argentina dominate from start to finish in their Group J opener.

He broke the deadlock in the 17th minute with a curling strike, before doubling his tally in the 60th minute after converting a rebound. He completed his hat-trick in the 76th minute with a composed finish from the edge of the box, sending the crowd into celebration before being substituted to a standing ovation.

Argentina, who lifted the trophy in 2022 after defeating France in a dramatic final in Doha, now begin their campaign aiming for back-to-back World Cup titles.

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Kylian Mbappe, who starred in that 2022 final with a hat-trick for France, also made headlines on Tuesday by scoring twice in France’s 3-1 win over Senegal, taking his international tally to 58 goals. France coach Didier Deschamps praised his striker, saying Mbappe’s ability to decide matches remained exceptional despite mixed moments in play.

Elsewhere, Norway’s Erling Haaland marked his World Cup debut with a brace in a 4-1 win over Iraq, taking his international goals tally to 57 in 51 appearances. His performance helped Norway secure a dominant victory in their opening Group I match.

With several top stars delivering standout performances on the opening matchdays, the tournament has begun with high expectations as teams battle for early advantage in the group stage.