Messi Shines at the 2026 World Cup, Achieves Multiple Records with His First Hat-Trick
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June 17 marked a remarkable day for football legends. While many players gave impressive performances, Argentine star Lionel Messi stood at the center of attention.
Following notable performances by France’s Kylian Mbappe and Norway’s Erling Haaland, each scoring twice and earning widespread acclaim at this ongoing FIFA World Cup, Messi showcased his brilliance.
With a hat-trick against Algeria, Messi equaled the all-time World Cup top scorer record, shared with 16 goals. Despite his advancing age, he proved his enduring prowess on the field.
At 38 years old, Messi became the first player to participate in six World Cups during the match in Kansas. This milestone puts him one day ahead of Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo.
Messi made his World Cup debut in 2006 in Germany at age 18. Twenty years later, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers ever, he played his 200th match representing Argentina. His performance remained exceptional, demonstrating agility and skill as before.
What Messi Said
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“My family, my teammates who are always by my side… enjoying this moment together is beautiful,” he said afterward.
“Our team is very united and strong. I like that. Winning a tough match feels like destiny. A first match victory is crucial.”
“I am grateful to the supporters because they have shown how passionate they still are for Argentina football. Today, we have once again filled the stadium.”
Messi Celebrated His World Cup Goal Like It Was His First
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The tone of the match was set early on.
Four minutes in, Messi surged forward at full speed, outwitting Algeria’s goalkeeper Luca Zidane to strike the ball into the net – but the goal was disallowed due to an offside flag.
Argentine fans erupted as though their team had already won the World Cup. Journalists also sensed a goal was imminent. It just arrived a bit later than expected.
After Messi’s kicking foot was caught in a tackle by Issa Mandi, there was brief concern, but no disciplinary action was taken. Messi took full advantage of the situation.
At the 18th minute, Messi seized another chance, firing a powerful shot with his left foot from 25 yards, hitting the top right corner of the goalpost.
Goalkeeper Zidane attempted to block with both hands. Zidane is the son of French football legend Zinedine Zidane.
Messi’s shot was so powerful the ball went inside the net. The cheers of Argentine fans echoed throughout Kansas City Stadium. This was Messi’s 14th World Cup goal, marking the start of a new historic journey.
“Messi celebrated as if it was his first World Cup goal. Given his capabilities, it seems he never ages. That strike was wonderfully precise and he converted it beautifully,” commented former Everton midfielder Leon Osman.
Two decades after his World Cup debut, Messi took part in his 27th World Cup game — a record in itself. His age posed no obstacle as he actively sought scoring chances throughout the match, appearing agile, dynamic, and dangerous.
Sixty minutes into the game, Messi earned another opportunity.
Following a mistake by Zidane, the ball fell to Messi’s feet. Calmly, he shot the ball into the post again, scoring another goal.
The previous record for most goals scored in World Cup history was held by Germany’s Miroslav Klose, who had 16 goals. Messi was trailing by one goal but had already become the oldest player to score twice in a World Cup.
To date, age has not limited Messi’s abilities. Since turning 25, he has scored 10 World Cup goals, exceeding the combined totals of Harry Kane, Diego Maradona, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Thierry Henry in the tournament.
Historic Moments
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In the 76th minute, Messi completed his hat-trick, receiving a pass from substitute Nico Gonzalez. Scoring the goal seemed destined for him.
Ultimately, Messi matched Germany’s Miroslav Klose atop the list of highest World Cup goal scorers.
Raising both arms, he looked skyward. Argentine fans erupted in celebration. It was a special moment for Messi who turned to thank his supporters.
As Messi was substituted off, fans stood to honor him. The stadium in Kansas City once again echoed his name.
Even after the match, thousands of Argentine supporters stayed in the stadium celebrating.
The venue was packed with fans wearing blue and white jerseys, drums continuously beating, as voices soared in joyous celebration for the team.
Many wore jerseys with Messi’s name, and some even had tattoos of his face. All were united in praising Messi.
To these fans, Messi is more than a player; they call him ‘hero’, ‘idol’, or ‘our son’.
Four years ago, Messi led Argentina to World Cup victory. There is no doubt that Messi can once again bring his nation to the top.
Even the typical main attraction of this stadium, Kansas City Chiefs’ quarterback Patrick Mahomes, was mesmerized watching Messi’s miraculous play.
On that day for football legends, Messi was unquestionably the best player.
