Lionel Messi produced a sensational hat-trick as Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 on Tuesday, drawing level with Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup goalscoring record of 16 goals.
The victory in Kansas City was another historic night for the Argentine captain, who became the first footballer ever to play in six FIFA World Cup tournaments. The match also marked his 200th appearance for Argentina.
Messi wasted little time making his mark, opening the scoring in the 17th minute with a brilliant long-range effort that beat Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of French legend Zinedine Zidane.
Backed by a passionate crowd that turned the stadium into a sea of Argentine colours, the 38-year-old continued to dictate proceedings.
He doubled Argentina’s lead in the second half, reacting quickest to a rebound to move within one goal of Klose’s record before completing his first-ever World Cup hat-trick in the 76th minute with a powerful finish.
Shortly after sealing the treble, Messi was substituted to a standing ovation, leaving fans to wonder if he would have broken the record outright had he remained on the pitch.
The victory gives defending champions Argentina a perfect start to their campaign, while Messi’s latest heroics further cement his place among the greatest players the sport has ever seen.
