Lionel Messi scores hat trick in World Cup opener against Algeria
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 3:49 PM
Last updated Jun 17, 2026
Lionel Messi scored three goals in Argentina's opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Algeria, marking his first World Cup hat trick. This performance ties him with Miroslav Klose for the most goals in World Cup history, with a total of 16 goals across six tournaments. Argentina's match ended with a shutout victory. Cristiano Ronaldo has yet to play in the tournament, with Portugal's first game scheduled for later today.
- •Messi's hat trick opens Argentina's World Cup campaign.
- •Ronaldo set to play Portugal's first match at 1 p.m. ET today.
- •Messi now ties for most World Cup goals with 16.
- •Argentina achieved a shutout victory against Algeria.
- 3:49 PMYahoo Sports — Messi vs. Ronaldo goals at World Cup: Updated stats, records hint at who is the best player on world stage
"Here's how Messi and Ronaldo have performed in the World Cup thus far.
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