Argentina player ratings vs Algeria: History made as Lionel Messi ties all-time World Cup goals scored record with hat trick in emphatic title defence opener
Lionel Messi scored a hat trick in Argentina's 3-0 victory over Algeria, marking a successful start to their World Cup title defense. The performance allowed Messi to tie the all-time record for World Cup goals scored.
Why it matters
Messi's continued dominance at age 38 remains a significant milestone in sports history and global football culture.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Argentina s World Cup title defence began nervously before Lionel Messi reminded everyone he is Lionel Messi. The 38-year-old scored a hat trick in a 3-0 win over Algeria before 69,045 fans at Kansas City Stadium. Messi s three-goal performance also moved him level with Miroslav Klose on 16 career World Cup goals, though Klose reached the mark in fewer matches.
The article is a standard sports report focusing on match statistics and player achievements.
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