Kansas City, June 17 -- Lionel Messi once again delivered a performance for the ages, scoring his first-ever hat-trick to power Argentina national football team to a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria national football team in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group Stage match at Arrowhead Stadium on Tuesday.
The win marked a strong opening statement from the defending champions, but the night belonged entirely to Messi, who not only inspired Argentina's attack but also equalled the all-time FIFA World Cup scoring record of 16 goals, held by Germany legend Miroslav Klose.
Messi, starting the match on 13 World Cup goals, was at the centre of everything from the outset as Argentina asserted control through possession and high pressing. Early tens...