Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick early Wednesday morning in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria at the 2026 World Cup, equaling Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup scoring record. The article says every goal was world-class and helped turn the match into a historic night for Messi and Argentina.
Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a powerful long-range strike that went into the top corner. Fourteen minutes later, however, he was involved in a brutal challenge on Algeria’s No. 2, Aïssa Mandi. Video showed a clear stomp that, according to the report, should have brought a straight red card.
Referee Szymon Marciniak of Poland ignored the foul, and so did the VAR team, leaving Messi without even a yellow card. The piece notes that Marciniak also officiated the 2022 World Cup final between Argentina and France, where he was heavily criticized for his handling of the game. Social media users slammed the decision, with one writing, “Again this happens, they let him get away with it, it’s as clear as day,” and another saying, “It has to be a red card. It did not happen by accident.”
Messi added two more goals after the incident to complete the hat-trick and seal the 3-0 victory. Algeria’s staff did not blame the officials after the match, and one team member praised Messi, saying, “What made the difference? They have a player who does not miss any chance. He is the best player in the world.” The report also says Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of Zinedine Zidane, made mistakes on at least two of the goals. Argentina’s next match is against Austria on Monday.
