NEW DELHI: Lionel Messi celebrated a historic night with tears, a hat-trick and yet another record as Argentina began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a dominant 3-0 win over Algeria in Group J at the Kansas City Stadium.The 38-year-old was seen emotional after scoring the first of his three goals, leaving fans wondering about the reason behind his tears. After the match, Messi explained that his emotional reaction had nothing to do with football. “It had nothing to do with football, I went through some difficult days,” Messi said after the game. “It was a matter totally unrelated to sports; I went through some difficult, complicated days.”Although he chose not to reveal further details, Messi thanked those around him for helping him through the difficult period.“I’m grateful to the entire delegation, to my teammates. They made a lot of effort to make sure I am doing well,” he added.The emotional moment was followed by a memorable performance. Messi scored his first-ever World Cup hat-trick and equalled Germany legend Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup goalscoring record of 16 goals.Messi had started the match three goals short of Klose’s mark but reached the milestone within 76 minutes. The Argentina captain first had a goal ruled out for offside before opening the scoring in spectacular fashion. Picking up the ball around 30 yards from goal, he beat his marker and curled a brilliant effort past goalkeeper Luca Zidane.Algeria managed to keep Argentina largely under control for the remainder of the first half, though Alexis Mac Allister came close with a header that went over the bar. At the other end, Anis Hadj Moussa created one of Algeria’s best chances, but Emiliano Martinez collected comfortably after a deflection took the pace off the shot.The Argentine superstar completed his hat-trick with a trademark curling finish from the edge of the box, marking his 200th senior international appearance in style.Messi later reflected on where he stands in his remarkable career.“It makes me very happy to have lived through everything that came my way. What I’m experiencing now is the cherry on top,” Messi said. “I’m very happy and grateful for this wonderful group. I am enjoying it so much.”The hat-trick added another chapter to an extraordinary international career that has already seen Messi lead Argentina to Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024, the 2022 Finalissima crown and, most importantly, the 2022 FIFA World Cup title.Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni could only marvel at another masterclass from his captain.“I am at a loss for words about Leo. What can I say?” Scaloni said. “He’s incredible.”The victory gave defending champions Argentina the perfect start to their title defence. Having now drawn level with Klose on 16 World Cup goals, Messi will have the chance to become the tournament’s outright leading scorer when Argentina face Austria on June 22.
