Lionel Messi Scores First World Cup Hat-Trick, Equals All-Time Goals Record

Defending champions Argentina got their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign off to a flying start as captain Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in their opening match.

Playing against Algeria at Kansas City Stadium in the United States, Messi found the net three times to complete the hat-trick. He scored in the 17th, 60th, and 76th minutes of the match, leading Argentina’s attack with another memorable performance.

The tournament marks Messi’s sixth FIFA World Cup appearance, and this was the first World Cup hat-trick of his illustrious career.

With the three goals, Messi also equaled the all-time FIFA World Cup scoring record. His tally now stands at 16 World Cup goals, matching the record previously held by German legend Miroslav Klose.

Messi’s historic achievement adds another milestone to his remarkable international career as Argentina begin their title defense in style.