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Lionel Messi scores hat trick in Argentina's World Cup opener against Algeria

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 1:00 PM

Last updated Jun 18, 2026

Lionel Messi scores hat trick in Argentina's World Cup opener against Algeria

Summary

Lionel Messi scored a hat trick in Argentina's 3-0 victory over Algeria during their World Cup opener on June 16, 2026. The match took place in Kansas City, where Messi's performance positioned him to tie the all-time World Cup scoring record with 16 goals, a feat he achieved on the same date 20 years after his first World Cup goal. This match was historic as it marked Messi's 200th appearance for Argentina and his participation in a record six World Cups. Patrick Mahomes, quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs, was among the spectators and expressed admiration for Messi's achievement on social media.

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Latest Updates

•Messi scored in the 17th, 49th, and 76th minutes.
•Match held in Kansas City, coinciding with Messi's 200th Argentina appearance.
•Messi ties Miroslav Klose for most goals in World Cup history.
•Argentina advances in Group J with the win over Algeria.
•Patrick Mahomes watched and praised Messi's performance online.

Latest Updates

1:00 PMYahoo Sports — ‘It’s Up There, Man’ — Rich Eisen Claims Lionel Messi’s Latest Feat Just Matched Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce’s Greatness

What they're saying

"
Lionel Messi’s latest World Cup masterpiece has earned comparisons to some of the biggest achievements ever witnessed in Kansas City sports. While discussing Argentina’s 2026 World Cup opener against Algeria on “The Rich Eisen Show,” Rich Eisen suggested Lionel Messi’s record-breaking display deserves to be viewed alongside the landmark achievements of Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce at Arrowhead Stadium.
— Yahoo Sports

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