Veteran Star Equals All-Time Scoring Record in Historic Appearance
KANSAS CITY: Argentina began their World Cup title defence in spectacular fashion on Tuesday as Lionel Messi scored a brilliant hat-trick in a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria at Arrowhead Stadium.
The 38-year-old captain delivered a memorable performance in his 200th international appearance, becoming the first player in history to feature in six FIFA World Cups. Moreover, Messi’s three goals elevated his World Cup tally to 16, drawing level with German legend Miroslav Klose as the tournament’s joint all-time leading scorer.
Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a curling effort before doubling Argentina’s lead shortly after the hour mark by converting a rebound from an Alexis Mac Allister attempt. He completed his first-ever World Cup hat-trick in the 76th minute with a composed finish from the edge of the area.
The Argentine superstar received a standing ovation when he left the field four minutes later, capping a landmark evening for both himself and the defending champions.
Mbappe and Haaland Shine in Other Key Fixtures
Meanwhile, France launched their campaign with a 3-1 victory over Senegal. Kylian Mbappe scored twice to become France’s all-time leading goalscorer with 58 international goals, surpassing Olivier Giroud.
France coach Didier Deschamps praised the forward’s impact, noting that Mbappe remains capable of deciding matches with moments of individual brilliance.
In another Group I fixture, Norway secured an impressive 4-1 win over Iraq as Erling Haaland marked his World Cup debut with two goals. The Manchester City striker increased his international tally to 57 goals in just 51 appearances.
Strong Start for Tournament Favourites
Argentina’s convincing victory immediately reinforced their status as one of the leading contenders for the title. Likewise, France and Norway delivered strong opening performances that highlighted the quality of their attacking stars.
As the tournament progresses, attention will remain focused on Messi, Mbappe and Haaland, whose early displays have already provided fans with some of the competition’s most memorable moments.
