Lionel Messi nets hat-trick, equals record for scoring most goals in FIFA World Cup history

Argentina captain Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Algeria, netting in the 17th, 60th and 76th minutes. Messi has now scored 16 goals in his FIFA World Cup career. He equalled former Germany striker Miroslav Klose’s all-time record for most goals in FIFA World Cup history.