Lionel Messi scored a majestic hat-trick to equal the all-time FIFA World Cup™ goalscoring record as defending champions Argentina cruised to a 3-0 victory over Algeria. The Group J opener took place on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at the Kansas City Stadium. The match doubled as a historic milestone for the 38-year-old maestro, who celebrated his 200th senior international appearance in sublime style.

Historic Chase of Miroslav Klose

Entering the tournament three goals adrift of Miroslav Klose’s long-standing global record of 16 goals, Messi erased the deficit in just 76 minutes of masterclass football. The forward now stands on level terms with the German icon, setting the stage to take the record outright later in the tournament.

Opening Brilliance and Algerian Resilience

The game started at a breathless pace, with both Messi and Algeria’s Fares Chaibi having goals correctly ruled out for offside in the opening exchanges. The breakthrough arrived in the 17th minute through pure individual brilliance:

• Messi picked up the ball 30 yards out from goal.
• He expertly turned his marker and surged forward.
• He unleashed a trademark curling finish past the reach of goalkeeper Luca Zidane.

Algeria fought back with discipline, limiting Argentina’s clear-cut chances for the remainder of the first half. The Fennec Foxes carved out an opportunity through Anis Hadj Moussa, but a heavy deflection softened his low strike, allowing Emiliano Martinez to gather comfortably.

Milestone Sealed in the Second Half

Argentina stepped up the offensive pressure after the interval. While Luca Zidane initially denied Lautaro Martinez after a clever pass from Messi, the Algerian goalkeeper could not hold onto a powerful strike from Alexis Mac Allister in the 60th minute. Messi pounced on the rebound, finishing coolly with his right foot to make it 2-0.

In the 76th minute, the historic moment arrived. Messi collected the ball on the edge of the penalty area and executed a precise, curling strike into the back of the net to complete his hat-trick and tie Klose’s record.

Argentina will look to continue their title defence and see Messi claim the record outright against Austria on June 22, while Algeria look to bounce back against Jordan.

Group J Standings After Matchday 1