Lionel Messi scores hat trick as Argentina defeats Algeria 3-0 in World Cup opener
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 3:50 PM
Last updated Jun 17, 2026
Lionel Messi led Argentina to a 3-0 victory over Algeria in their 2026 World Cup opener on June 16, scoring all three goals. Following his first goal, Messi became emotional and wiped away tears on the field, citing personal issues unrelated to football. He credited his teammates for their support during difficult days. With this performance, Messi tied the World Cup goal record at 16, sharing the mark with Miroslav Klose. Argentina will play two more group stage matches, facing Austria on June 22 and Jordan on June 27.
- •Messi scored his first goal shortly after kickoff with an assist from Rodrigo De Paul.
- •He scored again early in the second half and completed his hat trick before being substituted.
- •The match drew a crowd of 69,045 at Kansas City Stadium.
- •Argentina has two upcoming matches in the World Cup group stage after this win.
- 3:50 PMYahoo Sports — Lionel Messi Explains Why He Cried in 2026 World Cup Opener After Scoring Hat Trick
- 3:48 PMYahoo Sports — Why Lionel Messi Was in Tears During World Cup Game
"The Argentinian soccer star broke down in tears after scoring his first goal for the team against Algeria in the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday, June 16
"He was noticeably overcome with emotion after the special moment.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 17, 2026, 3:50 PMLionel Messi Explains Why He Cried in 2026 World Cup Opener After Scoring Hat Trick
The Argentinian soccer star broke down in tears after scoring his first goal for the team against Algeria in the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday, June 16
- Yahoo SportsJun 17, 2026, 3:48 PMWhy Lionel Messi Was in Tears During World Cup Game
He was noticeably overcome with emotion after the special moment.
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