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Messi nets hat-trick in World Cup opener for Argentina against opponent

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 6:50 AM

Last updated Jun 17, 2026

Messi nets hat-trick in World Cup opener for Argentina against opponent

Summary

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in Argentina's World Cup opener, leading the team to a 3-0 victory. This achievement ties him with Miroslav Klose for the all-time World Cup scoring record at 16 goals. Despite an early goal being disallowed for offside, Messi's performance once again showcased his enduring talent at age 38. After the match, he reflected on the moment, expressing humility and gratitude towards his teammates for their support during a difficult day.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Messi scored three goals in Argentina's opening match of the World Cup.
•Argentina won the match 3-0 against their opponent.
•The hat-trick marks Messi's first in World Cup history.
•Messi now equals Miroslav Klose's record of 16 World Cup goals.
•He expressed gratitude to teammates for their support during tough times.

Latest Updates

6:50 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Ronaldo is also there’ – Messi reacts after netting historic World Cup hat-trick

What they're saying

"
Lionel Messi paid homage to other great forwards after matching the all-time World Cup scoring record with a hat-trick in Argentina’s opener.The last World Cup in Qatar was undoubtedly the crowning ...
— Yahoo Sports

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