Argentina’s Messi equals World Cup goalscoring record with hat-trick in defeat of Algeria

Sport

Lionel Messi piled up the records as he scored all three goals for Argentina in their 2026 World Cup opener against Algeria on Tuesday, becoming the first player to feature in six World Cups and matching former Germany striker Miroslav Klose’s tally of 16 goals on football’s biggest stage.

Issued on: 17/06/2026 – 05:00Modified: 17/06/2026 – 05:08

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FRANCE 24

Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring the opener against Algeria on his 200th appearance for Argentina. © Claudia Greco, Reuters

Lionel Messi equalled Miroslav Klose’s all-time record for goals at World Cup tournaments when he netted for the 16th time in Argentina‘s 3-0 opening win over Algeria on Tuesday.

Messi, playing at a record sixth World Cup, netted a spectacular opener from distance in Kansas City, then poked home from close range before completing his first ever World Cup hat-trick.

The opening game in Group J saw another masterclass from the ‌Argentina captain, who turns 39 later this month and was marking his 200th cap for his country.

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