Published by TrenBuzz.com | June 17, 2026 | FIFA WORLD CUP 2026 MATCH REPORT
Key Points at a Glance – Messi World Cup Hat Trick Against Algeria
- Lionel Messi scored a World Cup hat trick as Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 in Group J at FIFA World Cup 2026.
- Messi scored in the 17th, 60th and 76th minute of the match played in Kansas City, Missouri.
- The hat trick took Messi to 16 World Cup goals, equaling Miroslav Klose’s all-time scoring record.
- It was Messi’s 200th international appearance for Argentina and his sixth World Cup tournament.
- Alexis Mac Allister and a Messi rebound after a poor save also contributed to Argentina’s goals.
- Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovicwas left frustrated as Riyad Mahrez and Fares Chaibi were unable to convert their chances.
Thirty-eight years old. A sixth World Cup. And a performance that might have been the greatest single-match display of his career on the grandest stage in sport.
Lionel Messi began Argentina’s defence of the FIFA World Cup with a stunning hat-trick, as Lionel Scaloni’s side defeated Algeria 3-0 in Kansas City. Messi scored in the 17th, 60th and 76th minute, scoring his first-ever hat trick at the World Cup, on his 200th appearance for Argentina as he became the first man to appear in six World Cups.
The Records That Fell in Kansas City
The goals took him to 16 World Cup goals, level with Miroslav Klose for the all-time record. He also brought up his 24th goal contribution in the World Cup, now going past Pele for the all-time record.
Lionel Messi found the back of the net for Argentina against Algeria, establishing a standalone record by scoring against 11 different nations in World Cup history.
What a Hat Trick in Soccer Actually Means
A hat trick in soccer occurs when one player scores three goals in a single match. It is one of the rarest and most celebrated feats in football. Messi’s World Cup hat trick against Algeria also happened to be the first hat trick of the entire 2026 World Cup tournament.
Algeria and the Route Ahead
Argentina and Algeria are in Group J, where they are competing against Austria and Jordan. Argentina must play Austria on June 22 and Jordan on June 27, while Algeria face Jordan first before Austria.
Argentina is looking to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cups.
🔗 [Also Read: “FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule: Where to Watch Every Game on Fox, Telemundo, and Peacock” | TrenBuzz.com]
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational and sports reporting purposes only. All match facts, goal times, and records are sourced from ESPN, NBC News, and World Soccer Talk as of June 16-17, 2026. TrenBuzz.com does not represent FIFA or any national football federation. Readers are encouraged to follow official FIFA and broadcast partners for live updates and official standings.