Argentina routed Algeria 3-0 in the World Cup group stage, with Lionel Messi delivering the headline. The 38‑year‑old opened the scoring after a quick break, sending a shot past Luca Zidane that the offside flag denied. Messi’s first World Cup hat‑trick came in the 76th minute, cementing his place in history for argentine fans today.

He netted his 16th World Cup goal, tying Miroslav Klose for the all‑time scoring record. The strike pushed him one goal shy of the top spot, while his second goal made him the oldest player to score twice in a single tournament. Messi’s performance underscored his longevity for argentine fans rising talent.

Argentina’s win keeps them firmly in contention for the knockout phase, while Algeria slips toward the bottom of Group A. The victory also guarantees Messi a place in the 27th World Cup match, a record that eclipses every other player’s appearances. Fans celebrated in Kansas City Stadium, where the atmosphere matched the magnitude of the display.

Messi’s display—two goals, a hat‑trick, and a record‑equalling tally—reinforces his status as the tournament’s brightest star. The Argentine forward’s performance will be remembered as a defining moment in World Cup lore, and it cements his legacy among the greats. Argentina now prepares for the next round with renewed confidence.