Lionel Messi Leads Argentina Past Algeria With Stunning Hat Trick

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to unfold, the biggest stars in the sport, both new and old, continue to shine. The latest example came Tuesday night when Lionel Messi scored all three goals in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria in its World Cup opener.

At 38 years old, Messi didn’t just lead Argentina to victory. He accounted for every goal scored in the match, delivering yet another reminder that he’s still one of the best players in the world. Since moving to MLS and joining Inter Miami, there’s been tremendous hype around Messi in the United States. He’s remained a superstar and continues to draw massive crowds, but opportunities to watch him perform on the sport’s biggest stage have become less frequent.

That’s what made Tuesday’s performance so significant. For many fans, it was a reminder that Messi isn’t simply a global icon living off his reputation. He’s still producing at an elite level and remains capable of completely taking over a match against international competition.

Now appearing in his sixth World Cup and helping defend Argentina’s 2022 title, Messi continues to defy expectations at an age when most players have long since retired or moved into limited roles. Instead, he’s still the focal point of one of the tournament favorites and remains one of the most dangerous players on the pitch every time he steps onto it.

If Tuesday’s performance was any indication, Argentina once again looks like a legitimate contender to make a deep run in the World Cup. And as long as Messi is playing at this level, nobody will be eager to see Argentina on the other side of the bracket.

He's the hottest name to watch moving forward in the World Cup.