Argentina started their campaign in the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a bang, as the defending champions secured commanding 3-0 win over Algeria in their Group J opener match on Wednesday, June 17 (as per IST). The game truly belonged to Argentine icon Lionel Messi, who smashed his first-ever hat-trick in the FIFA World Cup.
Lionel Messi beats Cristiano Ronaldo again
With his amazing hat-trick against Algeria, Messi managed to breach some records of the history books, as he broke Cristiano Ronaldo's record of becoming the oldest player to score three goals in a single game at the age of 38. Notably, Ronaldo achieved the feat at the age of 33 against Spain in the 2018 edition of the tournament which was hosted by Russia.
Lionel Messi joins elite list
Other than this, the Argentine legend joined Miroslav Klose as the highest-ever scorer in the history of the tournament with 16 goals. Meanwhile, Messi also surpassed Pele's 21 goals contribution by recording 24 goal contributions, with the help of 16 goals and assists.
After the game, Messi opened up on the feeling of joining a legend like Miroslav Klose as the highest-ever scorer of the World Cup, saying it's "It's an honor being up there for what it means, being alongside Klose and Ronaldo [Nazario], who is there also".
However, the star forward believes that "it doesn't mean anything" as "these are just stats and nothing more".
Next challenge for Argentina in FIFA World Cup 2026
After stamping their authority over Algeria in their tournament opener, Argentina will prepare themselves to lock horns against Austria in their upcoming Group J game on Monday, June 22 at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Interestingly, Austria will also enter the game with high spirits, as they secured a 3-1 win over Jordan on June 16 at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The Argentina national team will have to continue their momentum and intensity to secure a win against Austria.