Lionel Messi kicked off his FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a hat-trick against Algeria in Kansas City on June 17. The Argentine scored his first goal in the 17th minute. It led to an emotional reaction from the 38-year-old. After the 3-0 win over Algeria, Messi revealed that he emotional because of matters unrelated to football. He said that he went through a difficult period and thanked his teammates for their support.
"It had nothing to do with football, I went through some difficult days," Messi said after the match.
"It was a matter totally unrelated to sports; I went through some difficult, complicated days."
Messi expressed his gratitude to teammates, entire delegation for ensuring that he is doing well.
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In his 200th international appearance, Messi went on to score a hat-trick, becoming the oldest to achieve the feat. He broke Protugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo’s record which he achieved in the FIFA World Cup 2018 against Spain in a group stage match.
With his 11th hat-trick in international football, Messi also equalled Germany's Miroslav Klose's record for most goals in FIFA World Cup history. Messi and Klose are now tied at 16 goals. In addition, the two are tied for most wins (17) at World Cup events.
The veteran said that he is honoured to be tied with Klose but 'it doesn't mean anything' as they are statistics.
Messi likens his journey to Nadal
Also, Messi revealed that he has been watching tennis legend Rafael Nadal's commentary. He said that the two sportsmen are very similar as he likes to give the game his 100 per cent.
When will Messi’s Argentina be in action next?
Messi will be seen in action again on June 22 against Austria in Dallas. Then, Argentina lock horns with Jordan on June 28 at the same venue.
Algeria laud Messi’s dominance
Algeria's defender Aissa Mandi admitted defeat to Messi. He said that they 'tried to limit him as much as possible, but it didn't work'.
Mandi said that Messi is a player 'who doesn't forgive', hailing his efficiency.