Lionel Messi delivered a historic performance by scoring the first FIFA World Cup hat-trick of his career as Argentina defeated Algeria in their Group J clash.
The Argentine captain, who became the first player to appear in six FIFA World Cups, led his side to victory with all three goals in a memorable display in Kansas City.
Messi opened the scoring with a spectacular long-range strike before doubling Argentina’s advantage after capitalising on a mistake by the Algerian goalkeeper. He then completed his hat-trick with a clinical finish into the bottom corner, capping off a remarkable night.
The three goals also saw Messi equal Miroslav Klose’s record as the highest scorer in men’s World Cup history, taking his tally to 16 World Cup goals.
Argentina’s victory strengthened their position in Group J, with Messi once again demonstrating why he remains one of the game’s greatest players.
