Lionel Messi Matches World Cup Scoring Record with Hat-Trick in Argentina's 3-0 Win Over Algeria

Messi's Hat-Trick Propels Argentina Past Algeria

In a thrilling match at Kansas City Stadium before 69,045 fans, Lionel Messi showcased his enduring brilliance by netting a hat-trick to secure a 3-0 victory over Algeria. This performance tied him with Miroslav Klose at 16 World Cup goals, though Klose reached the milestone in fewer games.

The first 15 minutes were tense for the defending champions. Argentina's initial goal by Messi was disallowed due to Lautaro Martinez being offside during the build-up. Algeria nearly capitalized on that shaky start when Farès Chaïbi scored, only for VAR to rule it out for offside as well. Both teams probed carefully, searching for openings.

"They did everything they could. They reacted wonderfully in the first half," said Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni through a translator.

Then Messi took control. Rodrigo De Paul, his teammate at Inter Miami, delivered a precise pass between two defenders, allowing Messi to strike into the top-right corner and break the deadlock. This goal marked Messi’s fifth World Cup with a goal, coming exactly 20 years after his first.

"It’s hard to explain. We’re amazed with him still, though we get to see him every day," Scaloni added.

Algeria’s coach, Vladimir Petković, recognized Messi's impact despite his team’s solid performance. "Class is permanent," he noted, emphasizing Messi's eight Ballon d’Or awards and the collective effort Argentina puts behind him.

Messi’s dominance continued in the second half. After Alexis Mac Allister’s long-range shot was blocked, Messi seized the rebound for his second goal. Later, assisted by Nicolas Gonzalez, Messi completed his first World Cup hat-trick with a composed finish using his left foot.

Algeria matched Argentina in possession but struggled to mount effective attacks, producing seven shots with none on target.

Player Ratings from Kansas City Stadium

• Emiliano Martinez (7/10): Calm under pressure with excellent distribution, his long pass led directly to Messi’s second goal.
• Facundo Medina (7/10): Managed Algeria’s wingers effectively, focusing on defense over attack.
• Cristian Romero (7/10): Solid and untroubled, helped keep a clean sheet.
• Lisandro Martinez (8/10): Key defensive presence with four clearances, two tackles, and an interception.
• Gonzalo Montiel (7/10): Strong in the first half with five defensive actions before being subbed at halftime.

• Rodrigo De Paul (8/10): Displayed tenacity earning the nickname 'Messi's destroyer' and provided the assist for Messi's opener.
• Enzo Fernandez (7/10): Maintained rhythm with tidy passing.
• Alexis Mac Allister (7/10): His blocked shot led to Messi’s second goal; contributed on both ends of the pitch.
• Thiago Almada (6/10): Offered pace and width but limited influence otherwise.

• Lionel Messi (10/10): Delivered a historic performance matching Klose’s World Cup scoring record, setting the stage to become the all-time top scorer with one more goal. Also close to breaking Maradona’s assist record.
• Lautaro Martínez (5/10): Struggled to find his rhythm and failed to provide the necessary attacking spark.

• Julian Alvarez (5/10): Limited impact while recovering from injury.
• Nicolas González (7/10): Entered and immediately assisted Messi’s final goal.
• Nicolas Otamendi (6/10), Nico Paz (6/10), Nahuel Molina (6/10): Provided fresh legs and defensive support without notable weaknesses.
• Lionel Scaloni (8/10): Made smart substitutions and guided the team to a controlled performance after a nervous start, reinforcing Argentina’s status as tournament favorites.