Messi Scores First World Cup 2026 Hat-Trick, Matches All-Time Goal Record
Lionel Messi produced a historic performance in Argentina’s opening match at the 2026 World Cup, scoring the tournament’s first hat-trick and reaching 16 career World Cup goals. That total matches the all-time record held by Miroslav Klose. The match was played on June 17, 2026, and it was Messi’s first World Cup appearance as reigning world champion.
Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute after a fine pass from Rodrigo De Paul. Algeria pushed for an equalizer, but its hopes faded in the 60th minute when Messi struck again to make it 2-0 for Argentina. He completed the hat-trick in the 76th minute with a trademark angled finish that brought him level with Klose’s long-standing mark.
He was substituted immediately after the third goal. The article suggests that Messi could break the record in Argentina’s next match. The game was reported by N12, with photos credited to Reuters.
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