Sports News Report
Sport: SoccerCategory: Playoffs

Lionel Messi scores hat-trick in World Cup opener for Argentina

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 4:27 AM

Last updated Jun 17, 2026

Lionel Messi scores hat-trick in World Cup opener for Argentina
Summary

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick for Argentina in their World Cup match against Algeria on June 17, 2026, at Kansas City Stadium. This performance marked his first World Cup hat-trick and equalized him with Miroslav Klose for the most goals in World Cup history with 16. At 38 years old, Messi became the first player to compete in six World Cups, achieving this milestone a day before Cristiano Ronaldo. Messi's goals came in a dominant display, showcasing his enduring skill and fitness as fans celebrated in the stands.

Source Links
Yahoo SportsBBC Sport
Key Details
  • •Messi's first World Cup hat-trick comes 20 years after his debut.
  • •He equals Miroslav Klose's record with 16 World Cup goals.
  • •Messi becomes the first player to appear in six World Cups.
  • •Argentina fans celebrated passionately throughout the match.
  • •Messi's contributions continue to defy age and expectations.
Latest Updates
  • 4:58 AMYahoo Sports — Extraordinary Messi makes more history in masterclass for the ages
  • 4:27 AMBBC Sport — Extraordinary Messi makes more history in masterclass for the ages
What they're saying
"

Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland both enjoyed a fine start to the World Cup - but on a day packed with superstars, Lionel Messi still took top billing.

"

Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland both enjoyed a fine start to the World Cup - but on a day packed with superstars, Lionel Messi still took top billing.

Related Teams & Leagues
Soccer

Sources

External links

Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.

Related Stories

Last 14 days