Defending champions Argentina delivered a statement of intent at the FIFA World Cup 2026 as Lionel Messi rolled back the years with a sensational hat-trick in a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria. The 38-year-old captain once again proved why he remains one of football's greatest players, producing a masterclass performance on the occasion of his 200th international appearance for Argentina. Messi thought he had given Argentina the lead as early as the eighth minute when he slotted home from close range, only for the offside flag to deny him. It was merely a temporary setback. Moments later, the Argentine maestro showcased the brilliance that has defined his career. Picking up the ball deep in Algeria's half, Messi embarked on a trademark weaving run before unleashing a powerful left-footed strike from the edge of the area. The effort proved too strong for goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of French football legend Zinedine Zidane, as Argentina took a deserved lead. Algeria briefly threatened an upset when Fares Chaibi found the net in the ninth minute, but his effort was also ruled out for offside. Messi doubled Argentina's advantage on the hour mark, reacting quickest to tap home from close range after Luca Zidane parried a fierce effort from Alexis Mac Allister. The highlight of the evening arrived in the 76th minute. Receiving the ball just outside the penalty area, Messi calmly picked his spot and drilled a low shot beyond the goalkeeper to complete his hat-trick and send the crowd into raptures. The goal carried added significance as it took Messi to 16 World Cup goals, drawing him level with legendary German striker Miroslav Klose among the competition's all-time leading scorers. Three minutes later, Messi was substituted to a standing ovation from supporters who had witnessed another unforgettable chapter in his remarkable career. Even the Argentine captain appeared reluctant to leave the field, but with Argentina targeting back-to-back World Cup titles, coach Lionel Scaloni was keen to preserve his talisman for the challenges ahead. Messi's heroics also stole the spotlight from two of football's other biggest stars. Earlier in the day, France's Kylian Mbappé scored twice in a 3-1 victory over Senegal, while Norway's Erling Haaland netted a brace in a 4-1 win over Iraq. For Argentina, however, the night belonged to Messi. At 38, the World Cup-winning captain continues to defy age, reminding the football world that his magic remains as potent as ever.
