Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in Argentina’s Group J match against Algeria at Kansas City Stadium on Wednesday. The goals took his FIFA World Cup tally to 16, matching the record held by Miroslav Klose, and made him the oldest player to achieve a World Cup hat-trick. The 38-year-old reached the mark exactly twenty years after his tournament debut as a substitute against Serbia and Montenegro at the 2006 World Cup. Teammate Rodrigo De Paul, who provided an assist for Messi’s opening goal, said the forward shows little interest in individual records. De Paul noted that Messi appears more relaxed and is enjoying the game without the pressure he once carried. He added that Messi’s positive mood benefits the entire squad. Wednesday’s match was Messi’s 200th international appearance, placing him among only three male players to reach that figure. His goals also confirmed he is both the youngest and oldest Argentine to score in World Cup matches. De Paul stressed that having Messi in the team provides a clear advantage because of his leadership and team-first approach. Argentina recorded their first opening-match victory as defending champions, following losses in 1982 and 1990. Coach Lionel Scaloni praised Messi’s continued commitment and work rate on the pitch.
