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Messi scores hat-trick as Argentina leads Algeria 3-0 in World Cup opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 8:34 AM

Last updated Jun 17, 2026

Messi scores hat-trick as Argentina leads Algeria 3-0 in World Cup opener
Summary

Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick to lead Argentina to a 3-0 victory over Algeria in their opening match of the World Cup. Messi's first goal came in the 18th minute, bringing him level with Miroslav Klose as the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history. Following the goal, Messi was emotional, citing personal struggles unrelated to football. The match marked a strong start for Argentina as defending champions after prior tournament defeats in their opening matches. Argentina is set to face Austria next on June 22.

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By the Numbers
  • •Messi made history with his first World Cup hat-trick.
  • •Argentina's victory signifies their strong title defense start.
  • •The match is Messi's 200th appearance for Argentina.
  • •Argentina's next match is against Austria on June 22.
Latest Updates
  • 9:24 AMYahoo Sports — Lionel Messi explains why he was crying during World Cup hat-trick
  • 8:34 AMBBC Sport — Emotional Messi explains tears after Argentina goal
What they're saying
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Lionel Messi was brought to tears after scoring the opening goal in Argentina's 3-0 win against Algeria because of a matter "completely unrelated to football".

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Messi scored all the goals in Argentina’s comfortable 3-0 win over Algeria but appeared to be wiping away tears after celebrations of his first strike

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