Messi adds another chapter to legend with record-tying treble

With a dazzling hat-trick in Argentina's 3-0 World Cup win ​over Algeria on Tuesday, the 38-year-old ​Lionel Messi vindicated coach Lionel Scaloni's assertion on the eve of the ​match that he remains fundamental to the reigning champions.

Exactly 20 years after netting his first World Cup goal, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner again shaped the narrative, moving level with Miroslav Klose's 16 goals for a share ‌of the all-time ⁠men's scoring ⁠record at the tournament.

Also Read: Lionel Messi lights up the stage with hat-trick in opener vs Algeria, equals Klose’s all-time record


On a night that also marked a record sixth World Cup appearance and his 200th international ​match, Messi drew roars from the crowd from early on, robbing Algeria of possession high up the pitch ​in the second minute.

Beyond the hat-trick that would follow, that defensive effort and intensity offered a snapshot of what the forward could still offer his side at the tournament in the United ​States, Mexico and Canada.

"It's an advantage to have Leo, because ⁠of how he ‌manages the group and drives it forward," said midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, ​who set ​up Messi's first goal in the 17th minute.

"He doesn't pay attention to individual ⁠records. He prioritises the team, and for us that's incredible."

Messi's ​performance also offered a reminder of his resilience, as he arrived at ​the tournament after recovering from a muscle strain, having been eased back into action earlier this month. Any concerns over his fitness were put to rest.

Also Read: 'Numbers don't mean anything', says Messi after record-breaking World Cup hat-trick against Algeria

Scaloni's Monday statement that Inter Miami's Messi was now "even more" important to Argentina was emphatically validated with the veteran imposing his rhythm on the match despite being well beyond his prime European years.

"Speechless for Leo. What can I ‌say? He's incredible. He's been doing this for 20 years. Everyone in soccer wants to watch him and enjoys it," the coach repeated after the match.

The ​fact that this ​is likely to be ⁠Messi's final World Cup added extra significance for supporters.

Thousands of Argentine fans at the Kansas City stadium repeatedly bowed in Messi's direction, including when he was substituted for Nico Paz in the 80th ​minute, while others had gathered the day before in Mill Creek Park wearing shirts emblazoned with "Messiah".

In a venue where Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has so often commanded the spotlight, it was time for some Messi magic.

Mahomes was present in the crowd on Tuesday, with the NFL star sharing a goat emoji and video of the Argentine on social media, sports shorthand for "the greatest of all time."