Lionel Messi, now 38, is never one to rest on his laurels and keeps on re-writing the history of football.
The Argentinean phenomenon scored three bangers in a game also fantastic to open the FIFA World Cup 2026 for Argentina with an easy 3-0 win against Algeria. It was significant for the defending champions, but the moment was all about Messi and another amazing achievement in his illustrious career.
Messi had three goals in his debut in the Kansas City edition, with which he was level with the legendary German striker Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals, the most ever in the tournament’s history.
For a number of years, Klose’s record was considered undefeatable. Star goal scorers appeared and disappeared, but no one was able to pick up the former Germany shooter. Messi has now done just that and may set the record in Argentina’s next group stage clash.
But that’s what makes it even more amazing that it’s at this stage of Messi’s career. Many had believed the 2022 World Cup champion would be playing his last few years of football. But rather, he is the impetus behind Argentina’s dreams and is always on the ball when things are bright.
Messi’s first strike against Algeria was a typical long-range shot, while his second was a demonstration of the ability to play to his strengths, which has made him one of football’s most accurate strikers. The third goal was the perfect one to complete the night and ignite celebrations for thousands of Argentine fans in the stadium.
The performance also gives a warning to the rest of the tournament. Defending World Cup champion Argentina came into Qatar with some concerns that they might not follow the same form of success as four years ago.
Based on the performance of Messi, Argentina are one of the favourites to win the trophy.
But there is another intriguing side-story that is unfolding too. France striker Kylian Mbappé is fast making his way to the World Cup scoring charts and is still one point away from the record. The clash between football’s golden oldie and one of the sport’s promising young talents will be one of the highlights of the competition.
But for the time being, it’s Messi’s moment to shine.
One record has been found. He may be the only one to own next World Cup game.