Lionel Messi at the 2022 World Cup (Photo by Tasnim News Agency)
Lionel Messi scored a dazzling hattrick for Argentina to equal Miroslav Klose’s all-time record of 16 goals at FIFA World Cups as the defending champions swept Algeria aside 3-0.
Messi netted a spectacular opener from distance in Kansas City, then poked home from close range before completing his first ever FIFA World Cup hat-trick.
On a night for the ages in Kansas City, the records kept tumbling for Argentina’s miracle man, considered by many to be the greatest footballer of all time.
When the match kicked off at the home of the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs, Messi became the first player to feature in six World Cup tournaments, in his 200th international match.
And the 38-year-old lit up the occasion with three goals in a clinical display by the reigning world champions.
The Group J match in the open-air stadium started at a frantic pace and both sides had early goals ruled out for offside, including one from Messi.
But Argentina took the lead when Rodrigo De Paul played a beautifully measured through ball which Messi picked up before driving at goal and unleashing a fierce drive from outside the penalty area that curled away from Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane, the son of France great Zinedine Zidane.
Messi produced a majestic finish from distance in the 17th minute, sparking a frenzy among his adoring fans, who had turned the match into a virtual home game.
Messi curled another effort over the bar in the early minutes of the second half and Zidane kept out a shot from Lautaro Martinez.
But the crowd did not have to wait long to celebrate another goal from the veteran forward, who plays for MLS side Inter Miami.
Zidane could not handle a sizzling Alexis Mac Allister strike from distance and Messi was there to sweep home in the 60th minute.
Time stood still six minutes later as Messi was through again but this time Zidane pushed the ball over the bar.
But he was not to be denied, completing his hat-trick after being set up by substitute Nico Gonzalez.
Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina are seeking to become the first back-to-back winners since Brazil managed the feat in 1962.
Algeria are hoping to reach the knockout round for only the second time, in a group that also includes Austria and Jordan.
